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YORK    nONTHLY    flEETIMl 
LIBRARY. 

226  E.  lelt^Street,  Cor.  Ruth^urd  Place. 


ONE 


The  Lil 

Hooks 
MONTH, 

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EXTRACTS 


FROM 


LETTERS  AND  OTHER  PIECES, 


WKITTEBT   BY 


MARGARET   JACKSON, 


DURING  HER  LAST  ILLNESS. 


PHILADELrHIA: 

BENJAMIN  &  THOMAS  KITE, 

NO.  20,  NORTH  THIRD  STREET, 

1825. 


:^1-  K621 


»KERRETT leCCST  STRIET, 

PHltADElPHIA. 


INTRODUCTION. 


Margaret  Jackson  was  daughter  of 
Thomas  and  Biddy  Jackson  of  Eden- 
derry,  in  the  King's  County:  she  died 
at  Moate,  in  the  County  of  Westmeath, 
in  the  prime  of  life,  on  the  16th  of  se- 
cond month,  1822.  Her  last  illness  was 
of  several  years'  duration,  and  the  lin- 
gering progress  of  the  disease  was  at- 
tended with  severe  bodily  suffering.  In 
its  earlier  stages  she  passed  through  dis- 
tressing mental  conflicts,  arising  from 
an  apprehension  of  unfitness  for  the  ap- 
proaching awful  change;  yet  these  trials 
appear  to  have  been  permitted  in  mercy 
for  her  refinement — through  the  Re- 
deemer's love  she  was  brought  to  a 
state  of  peaceful  resignation,  raised  in  a 
remarkable  manner  above  her  suffer- 
ings, supported  under  extreme  and  pro- 
tracted weakness,  and  enabled  to  rejoice 
in  the  hope  of  a  glorious  inheritance. 
In  this  favoured  situation  she  felt  a  deep 


IV 


solicitude  for  the  welfare  of  others,  and 
under  the  influence  thereof  she  often 
imparted  lively  and  pathetic  counsel  to 
those  who  visited  her: — the  sweet  im- 
pressions that  accompanied  these  com- 
munications are  still  fresh  in  the  me- 
mory of  some.  Nor  was  it  only  to- 
wards such  of  her  near  relatives  and 
friends  as  were  from  time  to  time  in- 
troduced to  her  chamber  that  her  affec- 
tionate feelings  were  thus  awakened; 
she  earnestly  desired  that  all  who  suffer 
the  cares  of  this  uncertain  world,  or  its 
transitory  enjoyments,  to  usurp  the  chief 
place  in  their  hearts,  might  be  aroused 
to  a  sense  of  their  dangerous  situation, 
and  induced  to  seek  fii^st  the  kingdom 
of  heaven;  that,  learning  of  Him  who 
is  "  meek  and  lowly  of  heart,"  they 
might,  at  a  time  when  all  human  sup- 
port and  consolation  are  unavailing,  ex- 
perience the  fulfilment  of  His  gracious 
promise,  ^'  ye  shall  find  rest  unto  your 
souls." 

It  was  during  this  illness,  and  chiefly 
in  the  more  advanced  part  of  it,  when  al- 
together deprived  of  the  power  of  speech, 


that  the  manuscripts  were  written  from 
which  the  following  pages  are  selected. 
Some  of  them  were  designed  by  the 
writer  for  individuals   to  whom  they 
were  addressed;  but  the  greater  part, 
It  is  beheved,  were  intended  for  more 
general  use,  and  of  these  there  has  been 
very  little  omitted.  It  is  hoped  the  sim- 
ple language  in  which  her  sentiments 
are  conveyed,  will  not  prevent  their  fa- 
vourable reception  by  tJie  reader;  and 
that  the  circumstances  under  which  they 
were  written,  whilst  they  entitle  them 
to  his  indulgence,  wiU  give  them  an  ad- 
ditional  claim  to  his  attention. 


LETTERS,  &c. 


To  her  Sister  Jlnne. 

7th  of  12th  month,  1819. 

'  My  very  dear  and  tender  sister  Anne, 
who  hast  been  to  me  an  affectionate  attend- 
ant through  my  long- protracted  iHness, 
which,  no  doubt,  hath  tried  th}'  natural  feel- 
ings ;  but  thou  must  be  sensible  that  the  arm 
of  Omnipotence  must  have  supported  thee, 
or  thou  should  have  long  since  given  up.* 
Mayest  thou,  my  beloved  sister,  be  reward- 
ed for  thy  kindness  to  me  by  Him,  who  hath 
seen  meet  to  afflict  me  with  many  near  trials. 
Thou  hast  many  times  been  eye-witness  to 
my  very  weak  state,  yet  through  all,  my 
mind  has  been  for  the  most  part  preserved 
in  a  good  degree  of  patience  and  resignation 
to  the  Divine  will. 

^  It  has  at  times  occurred  to  me,  that  I 
might  not  be  able  to  disclose  my  mind  so 
fully  to  my  dearest  sister  verbally,  as  1  might 
do  by  committing  at  times  to  paper^  the  sin» 


8 

cere  desires  I  feel  for  thy  everlasting  wel- 
fare ;  and  may  also  let  thee  know  a  little  of 
my  own  experience,  which  has  been  more 
circumscribed  than  I  believe  it  should,  if  I 
had  been  faithful  to  the  convictions  of  my 
internal,  sure  monitor. — Oh !  my  beloved 
sister,  never  stifle  its  reproofs,  but  look  unto 
it  as  thy  guide  and  conductor  through  time; 
and  such  it  will  prove,  if  sought  after,  for  it 
is  nothing  less  than  the  strivings  of  the  Holy 
Spirit,  to  turn  our  hearts  from  the  evil  to 
which  we  are  naturally  prone.  Many  times, 
since  I  have  been  in  part  separated  from  the 
busy  world,  have  I  had  cause  for  deep  and 
silent  mourning,  that  I  did  not  attend  more 
closely  to  little  intimations  in  my  own  mind, 
which  would  have  saved  me  many  bitter  re- 
flections on  a  sick  bed,  when  the  most  tri- 
fling omission  in  time  of  health  will  be 
brought  to  our  view  :  and.  Oh  !  what  a  mercy 
that  we  are  favoured  to  see  our  great  un- 
worthiness,  and  to  feel  that  we  have  been 
transgressors:  but  it  is  a  sad  thing  to  delay 
the  work  of  repentance  till  the  hour  of  sick- 
ness ;  and  though  I  trust  I  have  not  been 
guilty  of  many  gross  crimes,  yet  I  know  I 
have  much  need  of  repentance,  and  prepara- 
tion for  an  inheritance  among  the  blessed, 
"whuse  robes  have  been  washed  and  made 
white  in  'the  blood  of  the  dear  Son  of  God, 
our  Saviour  and  Redeemer,  who  suffered 


the  cruel  death  of  the  cross,  in  order  to  be- 
Gorae  a  propitiation  for  our  sins,  and  who^ 
when  he  was  reviled,  reviled  not  again,  but 
submitted  in  all  the  sufferings  he  endured, 
to  the  will  of  Him,  who  sent  him  into  the 
world,  and  permitted  trials  to  assail  him, 
hard  to  flesh  and  blood  to  bear — yet  he  never 
murmured :  and  surely,  any  suffering  these 
poor  bodies  may  have  to  bear  whilst  clothed 
with  mortality,  is  nothing  comparable  to 
what  our  blessed  Lord  himself  passed 
through  for  our  sakes ;  our  trials  in  mutabi- 
lity matter  little,  but,  on  the  contrary,  are 
in  mercy  dispensed  to  us,  in  order  to  pre- 
pare our  souls  for  an  entrance  into  the  joyful 
confines  of  eternity,  where  the  wicked  cease 
from  troubling,  and  the  weary  soul  is  at  rest, 
and  where  all  sorrow  and  sighing  shall  flee 
away.' 

IS  mo.  13. — ^  Several  of  my  kind  friends 
paid  me  a  visit  this  forenoon. — My  mind  has 
been  impressed   with  an  awful  feeling  on 

hearing  of  the  dissolution  of ,  and  I  am 

almost  ready  to  wish  it  should  please  my 
Heavenly  Father  to  take  me  also,  if  I  were 
prepared,  but  I  fear  I  am  not.  Oh  !  that  I 
may  embrace  the  present  opportunity  which 
is  in  great  mercy  granted  me ;  I  am  sensible 
that  I  stand  in  need  of  preparation  for  a 
blessed  immortality,  and  I  may  with  grati- 


10 

tude  acknowledge,  that  T  hojpe  and  believe  in 
the  mercy  of  my  dear  Redeemer,  who  will- 
eth  not  that  any  should  perish :  I  trust  that 
I  may  be  admitted  even  to  the  lowest  man- 
sion in  my  Heavenly  Father's  kingdom. 

'  I  have  been  tried  at  times  during  my 
long  illness,  with  deep  poverty  of  spirit^ 
Avhen  I  have  been  almost  ready  to  fear  the 
Almighty  had  forsaken  me ;  but  it  was  mer- 
cifully  permitted,  to  try  my  faith  and  love 
to  Him,  for  whom  I  trust  both  are  unshaken. 
I  have  been  at  other  times  amply  compen- 
sated for  this  desertion  by  comfortable,  re- 
freshing seasons,  wherein  I  was  favoured 
with  a  full  assurance  of  the  love  of  my  Hea- 
venly Father  towards  me.  Oh  !  may  this  be 
the  experience  of  thee  my  dearest  sister, 
whom  I  feel  to  be  the  greatest  tie  I  have  to 
this  world  ;  but  let  me  tenderly  entreat  that 
thou  wilt  not  slight  the  day  of  small  things 
— attend  closely  to  the  dictates  of  thy  own 
conscience,  which  may  warn  thee  to  give  up 
some  things  that  may  be  repugnant  to  thy 
nature  to  part  with ;  but,  my  dearly  beloved 
Anne,  shrink  not,  be  willing  to  surrender 
every  thing  required  at  thy  hand,  think  no- 
thing too  near  nor  too  dear  to  part  with  in  this 
world  to  gain  the  soul's  salvation.  What 
are  all  the  fashions,  vanities,  and  pleasures 
of  this  probationary  state,  when  compared 
with  eternal  and  everlasting  felicity  ?  I  think 


11 

I  could  make  a  cheerful  exchange,  and  I 
feel  thankful  that  my  mind  is  in  a  good  de- 
gree weaned  from  subhinary  things.  I  trust 
I  shall  know  a  total  surrender  of  every  thing 
earthly,  that  may  obstruct  the  work  of  righte- 
ousness in  my  soul;  which  will  only  produce 
solid  peace,  and  the  effect  thereof,  '*  quiet- 
ness and  assurance  for  ever.'' ' 

1820,  1  mo.  5. — ^Oh!  may  our  future 
days  be  devoted  to  the  service  of  our  Hea- 
venly Father! — for  my  put,  I  have  not 
much  expectation  of  my  life  being  prolong- 
ed, as  1  feel  my  disease  making  slow,  but 
sure  ravages  on  my  weakened  constitution, 
though  much  has  been  done  to  mitigate  it, 
I  feel  more  gratitude  than  words  can  ex- 
press, for  all  the  kindness  I  have  experi- 
enced during  my  long  illness. — If  Provi- 
dence be  pleased  to  lengthen  my  life,  I  sin- 
cerely hope  he  will  enable  me  to  live  wholly 
to  serve  and  advance  his  great  cause  in 
righteousness ;  for  I  now^  see  there  is  more 
comfort  to  be  felt  under  his  glorious  banner, 
than  amidst  all  the  glittering  pleasures  of 
the  world,  which  I  entreat  thee,  my  dearly 
beloved  sister  to  relinquish,  and  place  thy 
hopes  on  pure  religion,  which  alone  will 
stand  thy  solace  in  the  hour  of  trial ;  and 
when  the  time  of  dissolution  arrives,  thou 
wilt  then  find,  when  all  other  comforts  fail. 


1^ 

religion  will  prove  thy  true  comforter; — seek 
her  whilst  in  health,  before  all  the  flattering 
delusions  of  this  state  of  mutability.  I  never 
before  saw  the  emptiness  and  folly  of  the 
world  as  I  do  now;  and  I  wish  all  would  be 
warned  to  see  the  foUy  of  terrestrial  enjoy- 
ments ere  it  is  too  late — before  the  aw  il 
trumpet  sound.  Oh  !  that  all  my  acquaint- 
ance knew  my  sentiments  now,  and  would 
take  warning,  to  make  a  timely  preparation 
for  their  final  change,  which  I  hope  may  be 
well  with  all :  I  may  truly  say,  I  love  the 
whole  of  mankind,  but  more  particularly 
those  who  espouse  the  cause  of  our  blessed 
Redeemer. — It  is  never  too  soon  to  begin  a 
preparation  for  death — did  we  ever  hear  of 
any  who  thought  on  a  death  bed  they  had 
begun  to  prepare  too  early? — Oh,  no!' 

2  mo.  1. — ^This  day  my  mind  is  impress- 
ed  with  an  awful  feeling,  on  hearing  of  an- 
other of  my  friends  being  laid  in  the  silent 

grave, who,  I  trust,  has  made  a  happy 

exchange.  I  feel  much  for  his  dear  parents 
in  their  tried  situation. — Those  ^*  whom  the 
Lord  loveth  he  chasteneth.''  When  I  think 
of  the  slender  thread  my  life  appears  to  be 
held  by,  1  cannot  but  marvel  at  the  wonderful 
kindness  of  my  Heavenly  Father,  in  prolong- 
ing it  far  beyond  my  friends'  or  my  own  ex- 
pectation,  having   been,  as  it  were,  often 


13 

rescued  from  the  jaws  of  death;  but  my  mer- 
ciful Saviour  has  seen  meet  to  try  me,  ia 
order  to  pur^e  me  from  the  dross  of  this 
wicked  world,  that  I  may  yet  become  an  in- 
habitant of  the  celestial  city ;  which  will 
more  than  compensate  for  any  sufl'ering  oa 
earth. 

^  I  frequently  lament  the  sad  devastation 
and  corruption  which  have  crept  in,  and  gain- 
ed admittance  amongst  the  members  of  our 
highly-favoured  society,  many  of  whom,  in 
early  times,  suffered  sore  and  hard  persecu- 
tions for  the  cause  of  truth,  over  which  none 
of  their  enemies  ever  were  able  to  prevail ; 
and  it  is  as  powerful  now  as  then  to  preserve 
those  who  espouse  it.  But  how  few  there 
are  w^ho  stand  as  valiants  to  support  their 
principles  as  they  should  ; — how  is  the  testi- 
mony neglected  and  let  fall  to  the  ground,  by 
which  many  have  suffered  great  loss  both 
spiritually  and  temporally.  I  have  often  been 
grieved  to  hear  and  behold  the  conduct  of 
our  young  people  of  both  sexes,  their  dress 
and  address  so  inconsistent  with  the  profes- 
sion they  make;  bow  can  they  suppose  such 
can  accord  with  the  design  of  our  all-wise 
Creator,  who,  I  am  convinced,  would  have 
us  separated  from  the  world,  that  is,  the 
customs  and  fashions  of  it,  and  that  we 
should  walk  in  simplicity  and  humility  as 
becoming  the  followers  of  a  crucified  Saviour^ 


14i 

who  was  ^•ineek  and  lowl;^  in  heart,"  and 
warned  [taught]  his  disciples  to  be  so,  even 
as  he  was.  1  hope  all  will,  ere  long,  see 
their  error,  and  come  to  behold  the  beauty 
there  is  in  the  unchangeable  truth ;  let  us 
consider  how  dearly  our  predecessors  pur- 
chased the  many  privileges  we  now  enjoy, 
and  yet,  how  do  we  slight  them  !  I  think 
there  is  a  great  degradation  in  being  asham- 
ed of  our  profession,  or  of  appearing  singu- 
lar :  such  was  my  idea  when  in  converse  with 
those  not  of  our  society,  I  was  not  ashamed 
to  address  them  in  a  plain  way,  which  I  now 
find  the  advantage  of;  I  have  not  to  reproach 
myself  with  having  denied  the  language  of 
my  blessed  Redeemer,  who  died  for  me  as 
for  all  mankind,  though  I  have  fallen  far 
short  of  what  I  should  ;  but  we  all  have  a 
merciful  Judge  to  appear  before,  who  is  just 
in  all  his  ways,  and  is  no  respecter  of  per- 
sons ; — let  us  only  believe,  and  we  shall 
have  all  we  require,  that  our  Heavenly 
Father  sees  meet  we  should  enjoy. — A  firm 
belief,  and  an  unshaken  confidence  in  his 
all- sufficiency,  are  great  attainments,  and 
well  worthy  our  seeking. 

^  Thy  truly  attached  sister, 

M.  J." 


15 


To  a  Young  Woman,  then  in  a  declinuig 
state  of  health. 


S9th  of  7tli  month,  1820, 


My  dear 


*  I  have  often  enquired  of  thy  weak  state, 
and  hear  with  concern  that  thou  art  not  get- 
ting better,  which  account  I  dare  say  thou 
receivest  of  me,  having  frequently  heard  of 
thy  kind  enquiries  after  me  ; — but,  my  dear 
young  creature,  I  never  expect  to  be  better 
in  this  world. — I  sincerely  wish  that  we  may 
both  be  seeking  a  city,  whose  builder  and 
maker  is  God  ;  and  let  us,  I  entreat  of  thee, 
endeavour  to  be  preparing  to  become  worthy 
of  an  entrance  therein,  as  there  are  none  of 
us  but  require  refinement  from  the  delusive 
pleasures  and  corruptions  of  a  vain  and  de- 
ceitful world  ;  and  I  rejoice  to  say,  that  the 
Almighty  has  enabled  me  to  see  the  vanity 
of  all  terrestrial  enjoyments,  and  that  I  must 
place  my  future  hope  in  his  all-sufBciency, 
which  is  alone  able  to  sustain  in  the  midst  of 
every  affliction. — He  hath  in  his  goodness, 
seen  meet  to  stain  in  my  view  every  thing 
that  is  contrary  to  his  Divine  will ;  and,  Oh  I 
my  dear may  this  be  thy  happy  experi- 


16 

cnce — nia3'est  thou  feel  a  total  resignation  to 
the  will  of  thy  Heavenly  Father,  that  whe- 
ther he  is  pleased  to  call  thee  from  this  state 
of  mutability  now,  or  to  prolong  thy  life, 
thou  uiayest  he  content;  and  remember,  that 
those  who  place  a  confidence  in  his  good- 
ness, and  feel  a  surrender  of  every  gratifica- 
tion, so  that  they  can  say  with  sincerity  of 
heart,  "  Not  my  will  but  thine  be  done,  O 
Lord,'^  they  will  never  be  disappointed.  I 
sincerely  hope  thy  mind  may  be  preserved 
in  a  state  of  quietude  and  peace,  which  the 
world  can  never  deprive  thee  of;  and  for- 
get not  that  we  have  a  merciful  Redeemer  to 
plead  for  us,  w^ho  is  just  in  all  his  ways,  and 
is  no  respecter  of  persons,  but  all  who  fear 
God  and  work  righteousness  will  be  accept- 
ed by  him. 

'  I  am  too  weak  to  write  more,  but  wished 
to  send  thee  a  token  of  my  love,  which  I  fear 
can  hardly  be  read. — Believe  me  thy  sincere 
well  wisher, 

M.  J.' 


1820,  7  nio.  30. — On  waking  in  the  morn- 
ing  she  prayed  most  fervently  for  her  dear 
brother  and  sisters,  that  they  might  be  pre- 
served from  the  many  temptations  of  this 
wicked  world  ;  then  for  all  her  near  and  dear 


17 

relations,  and  finally  for  the  whole  family 
of  mankind. 


10  mo.  2. — ^  I  have  oft  mourned  when  I 
have  reflected  on  the  state  of  our  society,  and 
the  departure  of  many  of  its  youth  from  first 
principles,  which  many  of  our  pious  prede- 
cessors suflfered  deeply  to  maintain,  by  im- 
prisonment and  persecution  various  ways, 
even  to  the  loss  of  life ;  may  they  seriously 
consider  the  impropriety  of  deviating  from 
simplicity  and  plainness  in  dress  and  ad- 
dress, as  unbecoming  the  followers  of  a  meek 
and  crucified  Saviour,  who  declared  that  his 
kingdom  was  not  of  this  world.  May  they 
be  induced  to  keep  within  the  holy  enclo- 
sure, which  is  a  hedge  of  preservation  against 
the  many  snares  that  abound  in  a  delusive 
world,  and  remember  their  Creator  in  the 
days  of  their  youth,  surrendering  their  wills 
to  the  Divine  will,  to  be  moulded  and 
fashioned  according  to  his  good  pleasure — 
he  alone  knows  what  is  best.  May  they  re- 
turn, and  that  ere  long,  to  the  Captain  of 
their  salvation,  that  so  our  society  may  yet 
flourish  in  primitive  purity. 

'  I  have  felt  dreadful  apprehensions  for 
those  who  continue  unregenerate,  going  on  in 
the  wild  career  of  sensual  earthly  pleasu3<;s, 


18 

forgetful  of  hereafter,  not  considering  they 
know  not  how  soon  the  trumpet  may  sound, 
and  summon  the  soul  before  the  dread  tri- 
bunal, there  to  render  account  of  the  deeds 
done  in  these  bodies,  given  to  perform  his 
will.' 


About  the  beginning  of  the  Tenth  month, 
1820,  when  enfeebled  to  an  extreme  degree 
by  an  illness,  at  that  period  of  more  than 
eighteen  months  continuance,  she  received  a 
visit  from  Nathan  Hunt,  a  minister  from 
America,  to  whom,  as  well  as  to  herself,  it 
was  rendered  memorable  by  the  remarkable 
extension  of  divine  favour ; — on  leaving  the 
chamber,  he  signified  to  a  friend  present, 
that  although  he  had  often  visited  the  cham- 
bers of  the  isick,  he  had  never  been  in  such 
a  one  as  her's.  so  near  did  her  dwelling  ap- 
pear to  be  to  the  source  of  all  good.  The  fol- 
lowing is  a  copy  of  a  communication  made 
to  this  friend  afterwards  at  her  request : — 

^^  Margaret  Jackson  sends  her  dear,  very 
dear  love  to  her  valued  friend  Nathan  Hunt 
and  his  companion,  tbinks  it  would  be  ac- 
ceptable to  them  to  hear  that  her  happiness 
and  peace  of  mind  have  increased,  since  she 
iad  the  peculiar  privilege  of  a  visit  from 


19 

iiim  ;  and  she  sincerely  desires  tliey  may  be 
favoured  to  return  to  their  native  land  with 
the  reward  of  peace, — sweet  peace,  which 
the  world  cannot  give  nor  take  away,  and 
finally  receive  the  crown  in  store  for  the 
righteous. — May  we  all  be  permitted  to  meet 
within  the  pearl  gates." 


A  female  friend  on  going  into  her  room 
on  first-day  evening,  the  15th  of  lOih  month, 
heard  her  commenting  on  several  parts  of 
Scripture,  concluding  with  (Psalm  xxiii.) 
^•The  Lord  is  my  shepherd,  I  shall  not 
^'  want.  He  maketli  me  to  lie  down  in  green 
^^  pastures,  he  leadeth  me  beside  the  still  wa- 
^^  ters.  He  restoreth  my  soul:  he  leadeth 
^^  me  in  the  paths  of  righteousness  for  his 
^^  name's  sake.  Yea,  though  I  walk  through 
'^  the  valley  of  the  shadow  of  death,  1  will 
''  fear  no  evil ;  for  thou  art  with  me  ;  thy  rod 
^^  and  thy  staff  they  comfort  me.  Thou  pre- 
"  parest  a  table  before  me  in  the  presence  of 
'^  mine  enemies :  thou  anointest  my  head 
*'  with  oil ;  my  cup  runneth  over.  Surely 
<'  goodness  and  mercy  shall  follow  me  all 
^^  the  days  of  my  life;  and  I  will  dwell  in 
*^  the  house  of  the  Lord  for  ever." 

She  saw  almost  all  her  acquaintances  and 
friends;  and  exhorted  and  encouraged  them 


so 

to  love,  serve,  and  trust  in  the  Almighty, 
and  that  when  they  came  on  a  sick  bed,  they 
would  find  the  advantage  of  it ;  and  also  ex- 
pressed a  wish,  that  her  young  friends  would 
keep  to  the  simplicity  of  truth  in  dress  and 
address  in  their  intercourse  with  the  world. 


10  mo.  S2. — On  some  of  her  cousins  com- 
ing to  see  her  after  meeting,  she  was  ena- 
bled, though  very  weak,  to  speak  to  them 
for  a  length  of  time ;  the  particulars  cannot 
be  recollected.  Her  prayer  was  beyond  ex- 
pression beautiful ;  and  on  their  leaving  her, 
she  took  a  most  affectionate  farewel. 


10  mo.  29. — ^  I  wish  that  all  the  young 
people  who  call  themselves  Quakers,  and 
who  profess  to  be  guided  by  the  unerring 
Spirit  of  Truth,  knew  the  concern  that  has 
attended  my  mind,  that  they  should  not 
launch  out  into  gaiety  of  dress  ;  for  though 
I  have  no  idea  that  religion  consists  entirely 
in  a  plain  exterior,  yet  this  I  believe,  and 
am  fully  convinced,  that  if  our  hearts  be 
truly  devoted  to  serve  the  Lord,  and  to  love 
him  above  every  thing,  our  inclinations  will 
not  prompt  us   to  follow   the   superfluous 


2i 

fashions  of  the  world  ;  tlie  false  pleasures  of 
which  can  never  afford  us  true  and  solid 
peace,  which  the  Almighty  has  promised  to 
give  unto  his  faithful  followers,  who  take  up 
their  cross^  and  live  a  life  of  self-denial  for 
his  sake,  who  alone  is  worthy  to  be  served, 
honoured,  and  obeyed.  The  truth  of  this  I 
now  declare — Marvellous  are  thy  works,  O 
Lord,  my  Redeemer,  and  that  my  soul 
knoweth  right  well ! 

*  These  deviations  have  given  me  much 
pain  of  mind  both  in  health  and  sickness, 
which  has  been  much  increased  since  laid  on 
a  sick  bed,  on  reflecting  that  many  who  are 
members  of  our  highly  favoured  society,  have 
suffered  the  temptations  of  a  cunning  enemy 
to  prevail  in  turning  them  aside  from  the 
strait  and  narrow  way,  which  is  the  only 
sure  way  to  eternal  happiness,  and  will 
alone  ensure  us  peace  of  mind  during  our 
passage  through  this  deceitful  and  uncertain 
world.  I  warn  you  not  to  be  decking  and 
adorning  these  poor  bodies,  which  must  ere 
long  be  consigned  to  their  native  clay — let 
your  adorning  be  that  of  a  meek  and  quiet 
spirit,  which  is  in  the  sight  of  God  of  great 
price: — consider  the  good  of  your  immortal 
souls,  which  must  be  either  happy  or  miser- 
able in  a  never-ending  eternity ;  and  the 
youngest  of  you  know  not  how  soon  the 
summons  of  death  may  reach  your  ears.' 


10  mo.  30. — ^I  should  wish  such  of  my 
young  acquaintances  as  may  be  inclined,  to 
attend  my  funeral;  perhaps  it  might  impress 
on  their  minds  serious  thoughts  of  their  latter 
end,  wbich  has  been  my  own  experience  on 
seeing  the  remains  of  a  fellow-creature  laid 
in  the  silent  grave.  It  is  with  a  view  of 
doing  good  that  I  invite  my  young  friends, 
as  it  matters  little  to  me  whether  many  or 
few  attend  the  solemn  closing  scene ;  but 
remember  that  I  am  young,  and  cut  down 
in  the  flower  of  my  youth,  wliich  may  be  the 
case  with  some  of  you,  for  the  old  must  go, 
and  the  young  may  go.  Do  not  put  off  the 
important  work  of  your  souPs  salvation  to  a 
sick  bed,  for  then  the  pains  of  body  will  be 
sufficient  to  bear,  without  the  stings  of  a 
wounded  conscience. — You  can  never  begin 
too  early  to  prepare  for  death. — The  good- 
ness of  Providence  has  been  mercifully  and 
powerfully  extended  unto  me  during  my 
sickness,  wherein  I  have  known  the  Divine 
arm  of  strength  to  have  been  my  support 
under  much  bodily  weakness.  May  the 
same  good  hand  support  all,  both  young 
and  old,  when  they  are  brought  into  a  simi- 
lar situation. — Oh!  that  my  soul  may  praise 
the  Lord  for  his  wonderful  condesc^'nding 
goodness  to  so  unworthy  and  undeserving  a 
creature  as  I  have  been  ! — Do  not  fail,  I 
eoireat  you,  to  return  him  daily  thanks  for 


§3 

the  many  unmerited  blessings  be  so  bounti- 
fully (lispenseth  to  transgressing  and  rebel- 
lious children.  Choose  the  Lord  for  your 
portion,  and  the  Grod  of  Jacob  for  the  lot  of 
your  inheritance — place  your  whole  confi- 
dence and  never  distrust  his  goodness  or 
power — he  is  able  to  do  all  things,  there  is 
nothing  impossible  with  God.  May  you 
more  and  more  admire  the  excellency  and 
beauty  there  is  in  the  unchangeable  truth; — 
suffer  not  any  worldly  cares  whatever,  when 
health  permits,  to  prevent  your  punctual  at- 
tendance of  religious  meetings  for  worship 
and  discipline.  The  performance  of  this 
most  solemn,  sacred  and  incumbent  duty, 
should  never  be  neglected  ;  and  whilst  as- 
sembled for  the  purpose  of  worshipping  the 
Divine  Being,  endeavour  to  feel  your  minds 
brought  into  perfect  stillness,  and  released 
from  all  corroding  thoughts  :  in  which  state 
we  can  alone  approach  our  Maker  with  ac- 
ceptance. "  God  is  a  Spirit,  and  they  that 
"  worship  him  must  worship  him  in  spirit 
"and  in  truth,''  The  mere  showing  ourselves 
amongst  others  will  do  little  for  us,  unless 
we  desire  to  have  our  minds  benefited  by 
going  to  meetings.  Do  not  let  youth,  or 
self-reasoning,  excite  thoughts  of  its  being 
time  enough  to  be  serious,  for  those  who  are 
truly  religious,  I  believe  enjoy  the  most  real 
comfort  and  peace  of  mind.  Oh!  that  none 


S4 

may  be  like  the  foolish  virgins,  who  had  no 
oil  in  their  lamps  when  the  bridegroom  came : 
— be  ye  all  ready,  whenever  he  shall  come, 
to  go  forth  to  meet  him. 

'I  strongly  recommend  a  frequent  perusal 
of  the  Holy  Scriptures ;  they  afford  instruc- 
tion and  consolation  to  the  seeking  mind. 
The  revelation  of  these  sacred  truths  very 
much  de^pends  on  the  state  of  mind  in  which 
we  read  them.  1  have  derived  unspeakable 
advantage,  and  many  times  my  mind  has 
felt  comfortj  from  an  early  acquaintance  with 
them,  which  makes  me  desirous  that  all  may 
cherish  a  partiality  for  reading  them:  1  well 
know  their  real  value. — Be  frequently  in 
the  practice  of  retiring  and  waiting  on  the 
Lord  ;  seek  his  counsel  as  your  only  sure 
gni^e  through  life;  it  will  enable  you  to 
pursue  the  necessary  avocations  you  may  be 
engaged  in. — Live  loose  to  the  fleeting  things 
of  time  ;  place  not  your  affections  on  sensual 
pleasures;  let  the  Almighty  Father  of  the 
universe,  the  Saviour  and  Redeemer  of  man- 
kind, be  your  first  love;  give  him  the  greatest 
room  in  your  hearts,  allow  him  to  come  in 
and  abide  with  you ;  may  you  never  reject 
the  tender  visitations  of  Divine  love,  nor 
spurn  the  gentle  reproofs  and  admonitions 
of  unerring  wisdom,  which  can  only  lead 
you  in  the  right  path  ; — be  not  ashamed  to 
acknowledge  the  Lord  in  all  your  vrays — 


25 

remember  what  he  suffered  for  the  sake  of 
all  sinnersj  in  order  to  redeem  us  from  our 
sinful  states. 

'  It  is  a  source  of  sweet  satisfaction  when 
I  reflect,  that  I  never,  to  my  knowledge, 
was  ashamed  of  behaving  plain  and  simple, 
or  of  making  use  of  the  plain  language  to  all 
ranks  of  people,  which  my  situation  in  life 
su!)jected  me  to  a  variety  of  acquaintance 
with;  and  I  never  found  that  it  lessened  mj 
respect  in  the  world,  but,  on  the  contrary, 
am  convinced  that  those  who  act  consistently 
with  our  Christian  profession,  are  much  more 
esteemed  by  the  thoughtful  part  of  mankind, 
and  must  be  more  acceptable  in  the  sight  of 
an  all -seeing  God,  from  whom  nothing  can 
be  concealed/ 


10  mo.  31. — ^Buy  the  Truth  and  sell  it 
not.  Oh  !  that  all  my  dear  young  friends 
may  be  induced  to  sell  all  that  they  have^ 
that  is,  to  relinquish  every  thing  that  is  con- 
trary to  truth,  and  purchase  the  pearl  of  great 
price. — Believe  me,  it  is  well  worth  your 
seeking  so  valuable  a  possession:  1  know  it 
now  by  experience;  for  I  would  not  resign 
it  for  the  greatest  earthly  treasure,  nor  make 
an  exchange  of  my  present  situation  for  the 
most  exalted  one  in  this  world.  I  humbly 
3 


S6 

trust,  that  He  who  can  convert  a  sinner  to  a 
saint  is  mercifully  redeeming  my  soul  from 
the  follies  and  corruptions  of  this  degenerate 
world ;  and  when  it  is  fully  purified  for  an 
entrance  into  my  Redeemer's  kingdom,  I  have 
no  douht  hut  it  will  be  granted  me.  I  know 
that  my  Redeemer  lives,  and  in  this  alone  I 
trust :  he  is  my  only  hope,  and  the  dearly 
beloved  of  my  soul,  and  to  do  his  will  is 
now  my  delight — may  this  be  the  experience 
of  all  my  fellow  creatures — may  the  great  I 
Am,  who  hath  been  graciously  pleased  to 
bring  my  will  into  subjection  to  his  own  pure 
^vill,  do  the  same  with  all  his  creatures.  Let 
all  be  subservient  to  him  who  alone  knows 
what  is  best  for  us,  and  orders  all  things  in 
\visdoin.  Oh!  the  goodness  and  power  of  re- 
deeming love,  which  has  mercifully  weaned 
my  affections  from  terrestrial  things,  and 
placed  them  on  objects  far  more  excellent  and 
superior  in  their  nature.  I  can  now  in  since- 
rity say, — Not  my  will  hut  thine  be  done,  O 
Lord.  I  declare  these  things  with  a  view  of 
encouraging  others  to  place  their  entire  con- 
fidence in  the  Father  of  lights,  with  whom 
is  no  variableness  neither  shadow  of  turning; 
knowing  that  I  have  been  a  great  transgres- 
sor, and  guilty  of  many  omi*^sions ;  so  that 
when  I  reflect  on  the  wonderful  goodness 
and  tender  dealings  of  a  most  merciful  Sa- 
viour, I  trust  I  feel  humble  and  self-abased : 
— Oh !    that   I   may   be  as  nothing  in  his 


27 

Divine  siglit,  not  having  any  thing  but  what 
I  have  received  from  his  bountiful  hand. 
We  are  poor,  dependent  creatures,  and  un- 
worthy of  the  least  of  the  Lord's  mercies, 
whose  compassions  towards  us  fail  not.  Oh! 
that  we  were  liumble,  meek,  and  lowly- 
minded  as  was  our  Holy  Pattern ;  who 
though  he  could  have  legions  of  angels  at 
his  command,  took  upon  him  the  form  of  a 
servant.  Let  your  thoughts  often  recur  to 
the  cruel  death  and  sufl'eriugs  of  our  dear 
Saviour,  the  Lord  of  life  and  glory — We 
must  bear  the  cross  and  despise  the  shame 
— I  am  convinced  there  is  no  way  to  the 
crown  but  by  the  cross ;  there  is  only  the 
one  way  to  the  celestial  city :  our  blessed 
Lord  declared  himself  to  be  the  way,  the 
truth,  and  the  life ;  may  all  fully  believe  on 
him  is  ray  sincere  desire.  I  feel  my  heart 
to  flow  with  love  to  my  fellow- creatures  ;  I 
trust  it  is  that  love  which  proceeds  from  my 
Heavenly  Father,  who  is  no  respecter  of 
persons,  but  all  that  fear  him,  let  their  name 
to  religion  be  what  it  may,  all  are  precious 
in  his  divine  sight. 

'  I  feel  longing  desires  raised  in  my  heart, 
that  the  faithful  labourers  in  the  Lord's  vine- 
yard may  be  encouraged  to  persevere  in  the 
glorious  w^ork  they  have  engaged  in  :  let 
none  be  dismayed,  for  He  who  alone  can 
strengthen  the  weak  hands  and  confirm  the 


feeble  knees,  will  support  those  who  are  bound 
to  he  zealous  in  the  cause  of  tru  th,  and  sincerely 
desire  the  prosperity  of  Zion  and  the  enlarge- 
ment of  her  borders  ;  let  those  not  fear,  for 
the  foundation  of  God  standeth  sure,  having 
this  seal,  that  tiie  Lord  knoweth  them  that 
are  his. — Truth  is  the  same  yesterday,  to- 
day, and  for  ever,  and  nothing  shall  ever  be 
able  to  overcome  it.^ 


11  mo.  1. — ^  Let  me  tenderly  entreat  those 
who  may  not  have  come  under  the  forming 
hand  of  Divine  Power,  nor  submitted  to  the 
yoke  of  Christ,  not  to  delay  longer,  nor  con- 
sult with  iiesh  and  blood,  but  to  enter  into 
covenant  with  your  great  Master,  that  from 
the  present  time  you  will  become  labourers  iu 
his  vineyard.  Oh !  the  reward  he  gives  is 
great !  stand  no  longer  idle — do  not  put  off 
to  the  eleventh  hour,  though  we  read  that 
they  who  entered  in  at  that  late  hour,  re- 
ceived as  much  as  those  who  bore  the  bur- 
den and  heat  of  the  day,  which  is  great  en- 
couragement :  nevertheless,  there  is  much 
loss  and  risk  attend  such  as  thus  put  off;  we 
lose  more  than  we  are  aware  of  by  not  serv- 
ing the  Author  of  our  being  all  our  days  :  I 
wish  I  had  been  more  faithful  all  my  life 
than  I  was. — Oh !  the  extent  of  my  Redeem- 


29 

er's  goodness,  no  tongue  can  tell : — My  dear 
friends,  reject  not,  neither  slight,  the  tender 
visitations  of  Divine  Love,  which  1  helieve 
have  been  extended  to  many,  lest  the  sen- 
tence applied  to  Jerusalem  shall  he  again 
passed  ;  remember  when  our  dear  Lord  be- 
held the  city  and  wept  over  it :  ''  If  tliou 
"  hadst  known  the  things  which  belong  unto 
^*  thy  peace,  but  now  they  are  hid  from  thine 
^^  eyes,"  &c.  ''  because  thou  knewest  not  the 
^^  time  of  thy  visitation."  Oh  !  that  it  may 
not  be  applicable  in  the  present  day.  And 
in  another  part,  "  O  Jerusalem,  Jerusalem  ! 
^'  thou  that  killest  the  prophets,  and  stonest 
^^them  which  are  sent  unto  thee,  how  often 
^'  would  I  have  gathered  thy  children  to- 
^'  gether,  even  as  a  hen  gathereth  her  chickens 
^^  under  her  wings,  and  ye  would  not."  Have 
not  there  been  many  of  the  Lord's  messen- 
gers sent  among  us  of  late,  and  where  are 
the  fruits  which  should  result  from  such  la- 
bours of  love?  Many  sharp  testimonies  have 
been  borne  to  backsliders,  and  also  much  in- 
vitation for  us  to  return  unto  the  Lord  and 
he  will  have  mercy,  and  to  o«r  God  who 
will  abundantly  pardon  our  sins,  if  we  be 
truly  devoted  to  serve  him  the  remainder  of 
our  lives,  and  sin  no  more.  We  should  be 
a  separate  people,  as  was  designed  by  Him 
that  first  gathered  our  society  :  "  Come  out 
'^  from  among  them,  and  be  ye  separate^ 
3* 


30 

^^saith  the  Lord,  and  touch  not  the  unclean 
^'  thing,  and  I  will  receive  you,  and  will  be 
"  a  iather  unto  you,  and  ye  sliall  be  my  sons 
^^  and  daughters."  Ah!  my  dear  young 
friends,  in  much  love  and  simplicity  do  I 
entreat  you  to  separate  your  minds  from  the 
false  pleasures  and  vain  gratifications  of  tliis 
fading  world;  seek  that  "city  which  hath 
^^foundations,  whose  builder  and  maker  is 
^'  God.'' 

^  My  heart  is  filled  with  love  towards  you, 
my  dear  friends,  and  to  the  whole  race  of 
mankind — it  knows  no  bounds,  but  reaches 
over  sea  and  land.  Earnest  desires  are  rais- 
ed in  me,  that  none  may  fall  short  of  an  en- 
trance into  everlasting  rest,  prepared  for  all 
true  believers.  Oii!  may  we  be  sheep  of  His 
pasture,  who  hath  promised  there  shall  be 
one  shepherd  and  one  fold  ; — Christ  is  the 
door,  and  his  sheep  hear  his  voice,  and 
know  it,  but  a  stranger  they  will  not  follow. 
Beware  of  listening  to  the  voice  of  the  ene- 
my, who  would  lead  unwatchful  minds 
astray,  and,  if  possible,  persuade  us  that  the 
Lord,  my  beloved  Saviour,  will  not  do  for 
us  as  he  promises ;  but  I  know  the  enemy 
to  be  a  liar,  and  the  truth  is  not  in  him ;  he 
is  a  cunning,  crooked,  twining  serpent,  full 
of  deceit ;  let  none  fear  or  doubt  the  good- 
ness of  a  wise  God.  whose  promises  are  un- 
failing— they  are  yea  and  amen  forever.  May 


SI 

the  attributes  of  ray  Heavenly  Parent,  whom 
iny  soul  now  adores,  be  my  perpetual  theme  ; 
whilst  I  exist  I  must  praise  my  dear  Re- 
deemer, that  hath  done  so  raucb  for  unwor- 
thy me;  replenishing  my  mind  from  time  to 
time  with  his  pure  love.  The  wonderful 
goodness  and  favours  I  have  experienced 
through  my  long- protracted  illness,  must  be 
obvious  to  all  who  have  seen  me — may  they 
ever  remember  the  good  Hand  that  could 
alone  have  supported  me,  and  forget  not  to 
praise  Him  who  only  is  v*^orthy.  Ah  !  praise 
and  extol  the  King  of  kings  and  Lord  of 
lords  :  '^  Be  thou  exalted,  O  God,  above  the 
"  heavens,  let  thy  glory  be  above  all  the 
r^  earth ;''  for  thou  art  a  jealous  God,  and 
will  not  give  thy  glory  to  another,  nor  thy 
praise  to  graven  images.  "  No  man  having 
^'  put  his  hand  to  the  plough,  and  looking 
^'  back  is  fit  for  the  kingdom  of  God,^'  were 
the  words  of  our  dear  and  blessed  Saviour : 
let  none  look  back,  I  entreat  you ;  be  en- 
couraged to  follow  the  Captain  of  your  sal- 
vation ;  maintain  the  warfare  of  truth  and 
righteousness ;  fight  the  good  fight  of  faith, 
that  finally  you  may  obtain  the  reward  of 
^'  Well  done,  thou  good  and  faithful  ser- 
^^  vant,  enter  thou  into  the  joy  of  thy  Lord.^' 
Employ  the  several  talents  which  you  have 
been  entrusted  vvitli ;  let  none  be  like  the 
wicked  servant  who  hid  his  Lord's  money  in 


3a 

a  napkin.  Oh  !  my  beloved  friends,  study  to 
do  all  you  can  whilst  it  is  day^  for  the  night 
Cometh  wherein  none  can  work.  Though  we 
be  ever  so  diligent,  we  shall  have  nothing 
to  spare  in  the  great  day  of  account  which  is 
hastening  on  all,  when  he  which  is,  and  was, 
and  is  to  come,  will  judge  both  quick  and 
dead.  Oh  !  that  our  names  may  be  written 
in  the  Lamb's  book  of  life,  that  we  may  join 
the  just  of  all  generations  made  perfect,  hav- 
ing their  robes  washed  in  the  atoning  blood 
of  the  dear  Son  of  God,  who  gave  his  life  a 
ransom  for  mankind,  and  maketh  interces- 
sion for  returning  sinners,  who  look  unto 
him  for  redemption,  and  fully  believe  in  his 
all- sufficiency  and  eternal  salvation.  "  Be- 
'^  side  me  there  is  no  Saviour,''  saith  the 
Lord:  He  is  a  sure  refuge  in  the  day  of 
trial — Oh  !  my  soul,  art  thou  sincerely  at- 
tached to  thy  Creator — fail  not  to  return  him 
thanksgiving,  honour,  glory,  and  praise,  that 
he  did  not  leave  thee  in  thy  former  corrupt 
state;  cease  not  to  seek  a  continuance  of  Di- 
vine goodness  whilst  thou  art  clothed  with 
mortality,  and  when  the  joyful  release  shall 
come,  then,  O  my  soul!  join  the  heavenly 
host  in  eternally  singing  hallelujah  to  the 
Lord  God  and  the  Lamb,  for  ever  and  for 
evermore;  who  alone  is  worthy.' 


3S 

11  mo.  2.  Some  young  people  being  in 
the  room,  whose  welfare  she  seemed  inte- 
rested for,  she  gave  very  impressive  and  inte- 
resting advice  for  their  future  conduct — to  take 
up  a  resolution  from  that  night,  and  not  mat- 
ter appearing  singular  in  the  world — to  turn 
from  its  maxims,  its  pleasures,  and  its 
friendships,  and  not  to  be  ashamed  to  appear 
Quakers;  but  to  honour  their  Lord  and 
Master,  who  had  said,  ^^  Whosoever  shall 
^^  confess  me  before  men,  him  shall  the  Sou 
^^  of  man  also  confess  before  the  angels  of 
''  God  ;  but  he  that  denieth  me  before  men, 
^^  shall  be  denied  before  the  angels  of  God." 
— She  reminded  them,  that  they  had  in  her 
a  monument  of  his  goodness  and  mercy, 
and  wonderful  loving-kindness:  adding, — 'I 
v/ould  rather  be  a  door-keeper  in  the  house 
of  my  God,  than  dwell  in  the  tents  of  wick- 
edness. Perhaps  you  may  think  of  me,  and 
of  my  words,  when  I  am  laid  in  the  silent 
grave.  It  is  not  age  that  has  reduced  me  to 
the  state  you  see  me  in,  nearly  as  dependent 
as  an  infant:  I  am  young,  as  well  as  ,vou, 
and  you  know  not  how  soon  it  may  be  your 
situation.  Put  not  oiT  the  work  of  your  im- 
mortal soul's  salvation — defer  it  not  to  a  sick 
bed,  I  entreat  you,  when  the  ])ains  of  the 
body  may  be  sufficient  to  bear,  but  serve  the 
Lord  in  your  prime;  he  loves  an  early  sa- 
crifice, and  will  never  leave  nor  forsake  them 


m 

that  put  their  trust  and  confidence  in  him. 
He  is  good,  inexpressibly  g«»od,  to  those 
that  seek  him  in  true  humility  and  nothing- 
ness of  self. — ^^To  this  man  will  I  look, 
^^even  to  him  that  is  poor  and  of  a  contrite 
*^  spirit,  and  trembleth  at  my  word.''  Come, 
seek  for  yourselves,  '^  the' heart  knoweth  his 
"  own  bitterness,  and  a  stranger  doth  not  in- 
^*  termeddle  with  his  joy.'' — Taste  and  see 
how  good  the  Lord  is.  I  long  that  you  should 
feel  as  I  do ;  and  you  will,  perhaps  in  a 
greater  degree,  be  favoured  with  the  incomes 
of  divine  love,  if  the  fault  is  not  your  own. 
Take  up  a  firm  resolve,  like  good  old  Joshua, 
*^  Choose  you  this  day  whom  you  will  serve ; 
^^  as  for  me  and  my  house,  we  will  serve  the 
^^  Lord.''  The  Almighty  Judge  of  quick  and 
dead,  whose  penetrating  eye  pierces  the 
inmost  recesses  of  the  soul,  knows  every 
word  and  action,  sees  us  as  we  really  are : 
nothing  can  be  hid  from  his  view.  O  may 
we  fear  to  offend  !  and  fear  not  man  who  can 
only  kill  the  body,  but  fear  him  who  can 
cast  both  soul  and  body  into  hell : — fear, 
honour,  and  obey  him,  before  whom  all  shall 
bow,  either  in  judgment  or  in  mercy.' 


11  mo.  3.     ^I  trust  T  am  at  times   hum 
bly  prostrated  before  the  throne  of  grace,  in 


35 

Feverent  thankfulness  to  the  Author  of  all 
our  sure  mercies,  who  hath  been  pleased 
mercifully  to  lengthen  my  clays,  and  enable 
me  to  prepare  for  the  solemn  change  wliich 
awaits  me.  It  is  an  unspeakable  privilege 
to  have  a  time  of  refinement  granted  us.  How 
many  instances  have  we  of  those  taken  off 
the  stage  of  life  at  a  very  short  warning.  I 
have  often  reflected  on  the  uncertainty  of 
human  life:  it  is  lamentable  to  think  of  any 
passing  their  precious  time,  as  though  re- 
gardless of  this  most  awful  subject.  L^t  us 
just  consider,  that  in  the  twinkling  of  an  eye, 
the  soul  may  be  summoned  to  resign  its 
earthly  tenement;  and  dreadful  is  the  thought 
if  any  be  unprepared,  who  have  not  felt  or 
sought  after  an  interest  in  their  Redeemer 
whilst  health  was  afforded  them  ; — their  si- 
tuation appears  to  me  truly  terrific.  I  wish, 
most  sincerely,  that  the  minds  of  the  supine 
may  be  awakened  to  consider  how  far  tliey 
are  fulfilling  their  duty  to  an  all- wise  Crea- 
tor, who  requires  no  more  than  his  due  ;  and 
if  we  do  our  utmost,  we  must  allow,  after 
all,  we  are  unprofitable  servants. 

^  In  much  affection,  may  I  endeavour  to 
dissuade  those  who  have  given  way  to  an 
inclination  to  attend  taverns,  the  theatre,  or 
such  like  places  of  dissipation,  from  continu- 
ing thus  to  waste  their  precious,  fleptiug  mo- 
ments.    How  can  any^  calling  themselves 


36 

Quakers,  feel  acquitted  in  such  practices? 
I  doii'i  tliiiik  anv  can,  and  it  is  a  dangerous 
thing  to  stifle  conviction,  by  acting  against 
conscience;  beware  of  this,  for  then  we  have 
no  cloak  for  our  sin,  and  so  become  the 
greater  transgressors.  Every  human  cieMture 
is  blest  with  a  sure  intt^rnal  monitor,  which 
reproves  for  doing  wrong,  and  if  atteiuied 
to,  would  lead  us  in  the  right  way  at  all 
times.  I  never  was  sorry  for  o!)eying  this 
true  guide,  but  have  felt  loss  attend  disobe- 
dient, even  in  trifling  temj>oral  concerns. 

^  Another  way  of  mis-spending  time,  in 
my  view ,  is  reading  novels,  and  other  evil 
publications,  with  which  ti»e  age  abounds. 
I  believe  they  have  injured  many  minds. 
Many  are  the  snares  which  the  enemy  of 
man's  happiness  lays  for  our  destruction; 
and  if  constant  watchfulness  be  not  preserv- 
ed, we  are  in  great  danger  of  being  entangled 
thereby. 

'  I  have  been  induced  to  mention  these 
things,  that  are  clearly  pointed  out  to  me  as 
errors  in  this  time  of  reflection,  hoping  they 
may  be  taken  as  intended,  being,  I  trust, 
the  effusions  of  a  heart  converted  by  the 
operative  power  of  the  Word  of  Truth, 
breathing  love  to  all  my  fellow  mortals,  and 
interestt^d  for  their  comfort  through  time  and 
happiness  in  eternity.  Believe  me  my  dear 
friends,  it  is  well  worth  taking  up  the  cross 


37 

to  our  inclinations  for  the  sake  of  our  dear 
Redeemer ;  tliink  nothing,  I  entreat  you,  too 
near  or  dear  to  part  with  that  he  shall  re- 
quire at  your  hands.  Oh  !  may  I  be  totally 
subject  and  given  up  to  serve  ray  good  Mas- 
ter, in  thought,  word,  and  deed,  the  few  re- 
maining days  of  my  life.^ 


11  mo.  4. — ^Be  humble,  be  patient  under 
suffering,  despise  not  the  chastenings  of  the 
Lord,  neither  be  weary  of  his  corrections, 
''  for  whom  the  Lord  loveth  he  chasteneth, 
^'  and  scourgeth  every  son  whom  he  receiv- 
"  eth.^'  I  rejoice  in  my  affliction,  knowing 
it  has  been  dispensed  for  my  good,  and 
such  I  hope  it  will  ultimately  prove.  1  trust 
my  soul  is  anchored  in  its  ('reator,  the  im- 
moveable Rock,  against  which  all  the  powers 
of  darkness  shall  never  be  able  to  prevail; 
and  that  nothing  shall  separate  me  from  the 
love  I  feel  in  my  beloved  Saviour  and  bles- 
sed Intercessor,  who  1  believe  is  now  mine, 
and  that  1  am  his.  Oh !  the  blessing  of 
being  made  a  true  believer,  having  un- 
shaken faith  and  firm  hope  in  the  merries 
rnd  all-sufficiency  of  our  dear  Lord  Jesus 
Christ.^ 


4 


38 


11  mo.  o. — ^The  Lord  is  a  sure  refuge 
ill  the  time  of  trouble,  and  a  shield  unto  all 
who  trust  in  him ;  he  is  ray  only  hope,  my 
deliverer,  my  buckler,  and  the  horn  of  my 
salvation.  Great  and  marvellous  are  thy 
works.  Lord  God  Almighty !  Just  and  true 
are  all  thy  ways,  thou  King  of  saints! — the 
mighty  Counsellor,  the  everlasting  Father, 
and  the  Prince  of  peace.  To  thee  only  be- 
iongeth  glory,  honour,  power,  thanksgivings, 
and  praises  for  evermore.  Amen. 

'  Seek  the  Lord  and  his  strength;  seek  his 
face  evermore.  Let  all  the  nations  of  the 
earth  fear  and  adore  the  name  of  the  great 
Jehovah^  who  is  alone  worthy.' 


*  I  feel  as  though  I  dare  not  omit  relating 
a  few  more  particulars  which  have  dwelt  on 
my  mind  with  some  weight  for  days  past, 
as  regards  instructing  the  tender  minds  of 
children,  and  instilling  therein  early  princi- 
ples of  piety  and  virtue.  I  wish  all  who 
have  the  care  of  youth  may  be  attentive  to 
this  important  work.  With  much  diffidence 
and  affection,  may  I  attempt  to  remind  parents 
of  the  strict  care  that  is  necessary,  to  keep 
these  tender  plants  cleared  of  all  noxious 
weeds,  which  if  suffered  to  take  root  and 
grow,  may  frustrate  the  designs  of  the  great 


39 

Husbandman,  who  hath  entrusted  them  to 
your  care,  for  which  he  will  most  assuredly 
require  an  account  at  the  final  day  of  judg- 
meot,  when  no  excuse  will  be  taken  for  ne- 
glected duty.  Such  a  responsible  situation 
as  parents  hold,  demands  constant  diligence, 
and  frequent  seeking  for  best  counsel,  to  di- 
rect and  enal)le  to  act  with  acceptance  in  the 
sight  of  our  Creator,  before  w^hom  all  must 
appear,  sooner  or  later.  Those  who  may  be 
encouraging  in  their  infant  charge  a  love  for 
gay  attire,  I  tenderly  warn  of  its  dangerous 
consequences,  thereby  sowing  the  seeds  of 
pride,  which  mostly  shows  itself  too  soon, 
and  should  if  possible  be  eradicated.  We 
know  that  the  Lord  hath  respect  unto  the 
lowly,  but  the  proud  he  knoweth  afar  oii*. 
Remember  the  humility  of  our  dear  Saviour  ; 
he  blessed  little  children,  and  said,  ^^  of 
such  is  the  kingdom  of  heaven,"  and  that 
whosoever  will  not  receive  the  kingdom  of 
heaven  as  a  little  child,  shall  in  no  wise  en- 
ter therein.  How  melancholy  the  reflection, 
that  corruption  should  be  introduced  by  pa- 
rents in  gratifying  their  own  inclinations.  I 
fear  there  are  some  who  do  not  consider  se- 
riously what  they  are  doing,  that  deck  and 
adorn  their  little  babes  before  they  knew 
what  dress  is.  I  have  often  beheld  with 
concern  the  decoration  of  some  infants'  dress, 
totally  inconsistent  with  the  principles  we 


10 

profess ;  iace  to  the  little  cap,  and  much  su- 
perfluous work  on  the  frock ;  such  vanities, 
my  dear  friends,  will  ultimately  prove  a 
source  of  sorrow  to  both  parents  and  chil- 
dren ;  when  the  latter  arrive  at  serious 
thought,  and  see  the  impropriety  of  gay  ap- 
parel, they  may  probably  censure  the  man- 
ner they  were  trained,  which  will  cause  the 
cross  to  feel  much  harder  than  if  more  hum- 
bly brought  uj).  Many  young  persons,  when 
laid  on  a  sick  bed,  have  felt  remorse  for 
Laving  given  way  to  vain  propensities,  by 
ibllov/ing  the  vain  fiishions  of  the  age  ;  and 
can  parents  wb.o  act  thus,  be  acquitted  of 
having  neglected  their  duty  ?  The.  good 
Shepherd  hath  made  them  stewards  over 
this  part  of  his  flock — the  care  of  the  soul  is 
more  requisite  than  of  these  poor  bodies, 
which  must  ere  long  return  to  original  dust. 
Though  nature  may  be  more  lavish  of  her 
accomplishments  to  some  than  others,  they 
should  not  be  noticed  in  the  hearing  of  the 
child  who  may  have  a  pretty  face,  or  fine 
person,  with  a  handsome  head  of  hair ;  be 
cautious  how  you  observe  these  things,  and 
if  their  attention  appears  to  be  turned  on 
such  endowments,  I  beg  you  may  discourage 
any  thing  like  admiration  of  them  ;  they  may 
prove  a  snare,  if  watchfulness  be  not  the 
study.  I  well  remember  the  strict  care  of 
my  dear  mother,  when  in  our  childhood,  if 


41 

she  perceived  any  appearance  of  vanity  in 
dress,  or  fondness  for  one  particular  garment, 
she  determined  to  deprive  us  of  it,  which  I 
am  convinced  served  to  preserve  us  in  some 
degree,  from  desiring  fashionable  dress.  I 
esteem  such  care  a  blessing,  and  it  is,  in  my 
opinion,  one  of  the  greatest  tokens  of  real 
parental  love  that  can  be  shown.  Winking 
at  foibles  in  children  is  very  mistaken  love, 
and  not  the  way  to  promote  their  comfort. 
Let  all  beware  of  laying  a  foundation  for 
sorrow  in  the  trying  hour.  My  dear  friends, 
be  prevailed  on  to  nip  every  evil  inclination 
in  the  bud. 

'  And  you,  my  dear  children,  be  dutiful 
and  obedient  to  your  parents,  attentive  to 
their  commands,  and,  as  you  grow  in  years, 
try  to  make  all  the  return  in  your  power  for 
their  care  of  you  in  infancy.  Be  kind  and 
affectionate  one  toward  another,  for  this  is 
well-pleasing  in  the  sight  of  your  heavenly 
Father,  from  whom  your  most  trifling  faults 
cannot  be  concealed  ;  though  vou  may  at- 
tempt to  hide  them  from  human  eye,  think 
not  to  do  so  from  Him  who  sees  and  knows 
the  thoughts,  words,  and  actions.  Never  be 
tempted  to  tell  a  lie,  or  deceive  any  person; 
act  with  candour,  and  be  willing  to  acknow- 
ledge your  faults,  and  you  will  he  the  more 
readily  forgiven.  Never  bear  in  your  mind 
any  thing  like  resentment;  be  careful  to  for- 
4* 


give  every  offence  you  receive  from  others — 
if  we  do  not  forgive,  neither  will  our  hea- 
venly Father  forgive  us  our  trespasses.  Re- 
member not  injuries,  but  should  differences 
arise  at  any  time,  endeavour,  as  soon  as  may 
be  for  a  reconciliation ;  so  will  you  live  in 
peace  and  love  with  your  fellow-creatures. 
Our  Saviour  commanded  his  disciples  to 
love  one  another  as  he  loved  them  ;  may  you 
be  preserved  from  breaking  this  holy  com- 
mandment. I  love  you  all,  my  dear  chil- 
dren, and  tenderly  entreat  you  ever  to  live 
in  the  fear  of  the  Almighty,  who  can  bless 
you  and  make  you  happy.' 


11  mo.  10. — ^  I  wish  my  dear  friends 
every  where  to  avoid  speaking  to  the  preju- 
dice of  any  person.  Whenever  you  feel  a 
temptation  to  this  evil,  or  are  in  the  way  of 
bearing  others,  discourage  it  as  much  as  pos- 
sible— never  join  in  such  a  conversation.  If 
charity  cover  not  the  tongue,  let  the  finger 
of  silence  rest  upon  the  lips  ;  would  you  like 
to  be  so  treated  by  others  in  your  absence  ? 
I  believe,  did  we  often  reflect  thus,  we  should 
then  wish  to  do  unto  others  as  we  like  them 
to  do  to  us  ;  this  would  entirely  prevent  tale- 
be.iring  and  detraction  being  heard  of,  which 
1  think  a  cruel  practice.     Avoid  and  dis- 


43 

courage  a  volatile  disposition,  and  levity  of 
conduct,  at  all  times,  as  there  is  danger  at- 
tends givi.ig  way  to  this  inclination.  Seek 
to  acquire  a  regular,  circumspect  deport- 
ment, which  is  generally  accompanied  by  in- 
nocent cheerfulness.' 


11  mo.  1 1. — ^  I  have  been  considering  our 
query,  Is  there  among  you  any  growth  in 
the  truth  ?  which  I  think  should  excite  an 
individual,  impartial  examination,  and  fre- 
quent communion  with  the  heart,  by  which 
we  would  discover  whether  our  desires  after 
the  knowledge  of  the  best  things  increase, 
and  if  this  be  the  happy  case,  1  believe  a 
growth  in  the  truth  must  then  be  experienced. 
Beware,  my  beloved  friends,  of  indifference 
or  lukewarmness  prevailing  as  to  your  pro- 
gress in  the  work  of  righteousness,  which 
shall  bring  you  peace ;  this  is  a  glorious 
work  to  engage  in — let  none  be  dismayed, 
as  all  who  follow  their  Divine  Leader  in  the 
way  he  requires,  and  serve  him  faithfully, 
shall  finally  receive  a  rich  reward  for  all  their 
toils.  Take  up  your  cross  daily,  and  bear 
the  yoke  of  a  dear  Saviour.  I  can  tell  you 
his  yoke  is  easy  and  his  burden  light.  There 
is  no  way  to  the  crown  but  by  the  cross. 
With  the  Lord  is  fulness  of  joy,  and  at  his 


44 

right  hand  are  pleasures  for  evermore — his 
ways  are  ways  of  pleasantness^  and  all  his 
paths  are  peace.^ 


11  mo.  13. — ^Oh  !  the  comfort  and  happy 
state  of  mind  we  enjoy  hy  loving  tlie  Lord 
above  all  things — it  is  beyond  the  power  of 
utterance.  Trust  in  him  at  all  times,  and 
you  shall  find  every  want  supplied  :  trust 
not  in  the  fading  pleasures  of  this  transitory 
state.  My  dear  friends,  spurn  not  the  gen- 
tle monitions  of  the  Most  High  ;  despise  not 
the  day  of  small  things  ;  cherish  the  least  ap- 
pearance of  good  which  may  arise  in  the 
Blind,  and  should  any  feel  at  times  as  though 
deprived  of  spiritual  comfort^  be  not  dis- 
couraged ; — the  Lord  is  pleased  to  hide  him- 
self for  a  time,  in  order,  I  believe,  to  prove 
our  faith  and  love  to  him  ;  and  if  he  still  tind 
us  seeking  for  him,  he  will  delight  to  satis- 
fy our  hungry  souls.  I  have  sometimes 
thought  of  those  who  are  tempted  whilst  in 
the  vigour  of  life  and  health  to  slight  their 
blessed  Lord  and  Saviour  by  persevering  in 
follies,  and  indulging  the  gratifications  of  self 
— how  can  such  look  for  comfort  in  a  time 
of  trial,  and  on  a  sick  bed — let  them  consi- 
der the  dan2;er  of  living  entirely  at  ease  in 
their  own  pleasures^  so  long  as  they  are  able 


45 

to  enjoy  tliem^  that  when  deprived  of  ability 
or  relish  for  such  things^  then  the  Almighty 
may  laugh  at  their  calamity^  and  mock  when 
their  fear  coineth.' 


11  mo.  15. — ^  Oh  !  the  ecstacy  and  raptur- 
ous sensations  that  fill  my  soul,  contemplat- 
ing celestial  happiness  ;  a  prospect  of  which, 
I  hope,  is  mercifully  granted  me.  I  believe 
I  feel  at  times  something  like  a  foretaste  of 
the  joys  of  heaven.  There  is  none  like  un- 
to the  Lord  :  he  has  granted  all  my  desires : 
I  seem  as  though  all  my  wishes  are  now  sa- 
tisfied ;  I  have  seen  my  dearly  beloved  Aunt, 
who  I  never  expected  to  have  met  in  this 
world.  I  feel  my  heart  overflow  with  grati- 
tude to  the  best  of  parents,  my  dear  Lord, 
who  has  daily  blessed  me  with  innumerable 
comforts,  and  yesterday,  not  the  least,  of  see- 
ing so  dear  a  relative.  May  the  Almighty 
be  her  support  in  her  weakly  state  !  Oh  ! 
my  God  will  be  with  all  that  seek  him. — I 
sought  him  and  was  not  disappointed.  What 
shall  I  render  unto  the  Lord  for  all  his  be- 
nefits ?  I  have  nothing  to  give  him  but  his 
own,  and  that  he  shall  have. 

^  I  hope  T  always  loved  the  Truth ;  though 
I  did  little  if  any  thing  to  forward  the  great 
work,  I  wished  for  its  prosperity ;  and  that 


46 

all  may  experience  a  growth  in  this  inesti- 
mable treasure,  let  none  depend  on  another 
answering  this  important  query,  [Is  there 
among  you  any  growth  in  the  truth  ?]  but  in- 
dividually examine  their  own  state,  and 
earnestly  press  after  that  great  attainment. 
Let  this  be  the  frequent  language  of  the 
mind,  "  Create  in  me  a  clean  heart,  and  re- 
''  new  a  right  spirit  within  me,'*  for  thoU;  0 
Lord;  alone  can  perfect  the  work  !^ 


11  mo.  18. — ^0  my  God,  how  profuse 
hast  thou  been  of  thy  goodness  to  me,  from 
my  infantile  years  to  this  time.  I  delight  to 
commemorate  the  Lord's  peculiar  mercies 
and  comforts,  dispensed  to  me  on  a  bed  of 
languishing,  in  the  course  of  which  time  I 
was  favoured  to  partake  of  visits  from  seve- 
ral kind  friends,  that  T  hope  are  faithful  in 
the  work  of  my  dear  Redeemer,  and  minis- 
ters of  the  Gospel,  who  comforted  and 
strengthened  me  ;  nor  shall  I,  whilst  favour- 
ed with  recollection,  lose  sight  of  the  feel- 
ings enjoyed,  the  few  moments  I  passed  in 
the  company  of  my  much  valued  friend,  Na- 
than Hunt,  from  America,  who  was  the  mes- 
senger of  good  tidings  to  my  bed -side.  Often 
have  I  reflected  on  that  precious  season, 
wherein  I  felt  as  if  the  good  Master  was 


47 

present  with  us.  This  visit  made  so  great 
an  '.nipr(\ssion  on  my  mind,  I  did  not  like  to 
omit  noticing  it.  The  few  like  opportunities 
I  enjoyed  with  other  dear  friends,  afforded 
me  solid  satisfaction : — all,  1  trust,  are  sealed 
on  my  memory.  Never  be  cast  down,  O  my 
soul,  nor  disquieted  within  me  ;  trust  in  the 
Lord,  for  I  shall  praise  him,  who  is  the 
health  of  my  countenance  and  my  God. 
What  should  I  do,  but  for  constant  supplies 
of  inward  support  from  the  pure,  inexhausti- 
ble fountain  of  all  good?  My  bodily  weak- 
ness is  now  exceedingly  oppressive,  but 
through  all  my  mind  is  preserved  calm  and 
tranquil,  which  more  than  compensates  for 
any  bodily  suffering, — thanks  to  my  belov- 
ed, everlasting  Helper,  who  can  do  as  much 
for  others,  yea,  more,  than  he  hath  done 
for  me :  this  thought  is  consoling  to  my  mind. 
Let  not  thy  hand  spare,  O  Lord !  nor  thine 
eye  pity,  until  thou  hast  made  all  hearts 
what  thou  wouldest  have  them  to  be.  Oh  ! 
that  all  may  submit  to  the  operations  of 
Truth,  and  none  be  strangers  to  the  inward 
work,  which  is  a  blessed  work  indeed. 

'  I  was  one  night  awoke  from  sleep,  with 
these  comfortable  words  impressed  on  my 
mind,  ^^They  shall  be  kept  in  perfect  peace 
^'  whose  minds  are  stayed  on  their  God."  I 
trust  mine  is  so,  or  I  should  hardly  enjoy 
such  sweet  peace  and  quiet  as  I  dO;  and  have 


48 

enjoyed  for  many  weeks  back.  I  must  not 
fail  to  glorify  the  great  I  am^  who  cloth  mar- 
vellous things,  manifold  are  his  works,  in 
wisdom  are  all  ordered  by  him.  I  have 
thought  of  the  lepers  which  we  read  were 
cleansed,  and  of  their  neglect.  ^^  Where  are 
"  the  nine?"  said  the  only  one  good  Healer: 
^^  There  are  not  found  that  have  returned 
^^to  give  glory  to  God,  save  this  stranger.'' 
Be  not  deficient  my  dear  friends,  in  praising 
your  Heavenly  Father  for  the  very  least  of 
his  favours.  We  feel  a  wish  to  make  some 
return  to  our  friends  for  past  kindness,  and 
surely  we  should  feel  doubly  anxious  to  re- 
turn gratitude  and  praises,  due  to  that  great 
and  good  Being,  from  whom  alone  we  re- 
ceive every  perfect  gift,  and  whose  stores  of 
kindness  are  never  closed  against  us;  if 
the  fault  be  not  our  own,  no  good  thing  will 
he  withhold  that  can  add  to  our  comfort. 
He  who  walketh  on  the  wings  of  the  wind, 
and  the  clouds  are  under  his  feet,  whose 
throne  is  in  heaven  and  his  footstool  on 
earth,  He  it  is  I  wish  to  praise  and  exalt, 
who,  I  humbly  trust,  will  be  pleased  ere 
long  to  raise  me  to  the  summit  of  felicity. 
I  desire  to  be  abased  as  in  dust  and  ashes, 
knowing  my  nothingness  in  the  Divine 
sight.' 


49 

11  mo,  SI. — ^Iii  a  feeling  of  that  love 
which  T  believe  death  shall  only  dissolve, 
do  I  entreat  those  who  are  fond  of  gay  dress, 
and  adorning  these  poor  bodies  of  clay,  to 
consider,  that  though  in  a  state  of  natural 
perfection  one  day,  yet  before  another  closes 
they  may  be  cold  and  lifeless  as  the  dust 
from  whence  they  sprung.  Ah!  my  dear 
friends,  let  this  thought  often  impress  your 
minds,  and  be  not  exalted  in  your  own  esti- 
mation, neither  lean  to  your  own  understand- 
ing— we  can  do  nothing  of  ourselves ;  all 
our  endeavours  are  unavailing  without  the 
aid  of  the  Almighty.  '*  Except  the  Lord 
"  build  the  house,  they  labour  in  vain  that 
'^  build  it, — except  the  Lord  keep  the  city, 
"  the  watchman  waketh  but  in  vain.''  So  it 
is  in  all  our  good  actions  through  life,  we 
must  know  his  holy  Hand  to  be  underneath. 
Let  the  creature  be  humbled  in  all  things, 
but  the  Creator  exalted — exalted  and  mag- 
nified for  evermore  !  "  To  this  man  will  I 
''  look,  salth  the  Lord,  even  to  him  that  is 
'*  poor  and  of  a  contrite  spirit,  and  trembleth 
"  at  my  word." — It  is  not  in  sacrifices  and 
burnt  offerings  that  thou  delightest,  but  the 
sacrifice  of  a  broken  heart,  O  God  thou  wilt 
not  despise.  Be  pleased  to  convert  all  hearts 
as  thou  hast  mine.  Oh  !  thou  adored  and 
delight  of  my  soul,  Lord  God  Almighty, 
thou  kuowest  that  I  love  thee,  and  earnestly 
5 


50 

crave  that  all  may  love  and  serve  thee,  the 
only  true  God,  and  Jesus  Christ  whom  thou 
hast  sent. — I  wish  all  frequently  to  retire 
and  wait  on  the  Lord,  believing  such  offer- 
ings are  acceptable,  and  that  the  time  devot- 
ed to  such  services  would  be  blessed; — it  is 
in  the  silence  of  all  flesh  that  we  can  ap- 
proach the  Throne  of  Grace  with  accept- 
ance;— all  our  own  thoughts  must  be  sub- 
dued— thus  shall  we  hear  the  still  small 
voice. 

^May  my  beloved  brothers,  sisters,  and 
dear  friends,  yea,  all  the  world  over,  come 
to  experience  the  happy  state  of  a  true  be- 
liever, and  have  full  confidence  in  the  Divine 
Being,  which  I  have  found  the  advantage 
of;  but  I  do  not  mention  this  from  boasting, 
"well  knowing  it  has  been  all  the  Lord's 
work  and  marvellous  in  my  eyes,  that  an 
unworthy  creature  like  me  should  have  been 
thus  noticed  and  so  eminently  cared  for  by 
the  great  and  good  Author  of  all  nature. — 
Oh  !  that  the  celestial  and  terrestrial  world 
may  ever  praise  my  dear  Redeemer,  who 
reigns  triumphant  in  the  realms  above.  I 
long  since  thought  that  the  Divine  decree 
was  not  for  my  continuance  in  this  world ; 
at  that  time  I  felt  as  if  it  would  be  hard  to 
part  with  those  near  and  dear  to  me,  but  all 
have  been  much  easier  given  up  than  I  ever 
expected — thanks  be  to  Him  with  whom  all 


51 

things  are  possible,  he  has  drawn  my  affec 
tions  wholly  to  himself;  I  can  cheerfully 
resii^n  all  to  his  care — I  know  he  will  com- 
fort and  support  my  dearly  beloved  lonely 
sister  in  the  trying  time  of  separation,  if  she 
only  look  to  him  in  sincerity  and  reliance 
she  will  find  a  Father  and  a  Friend  that 
shall  never  be  taken  from  her.  Slie  has 
been  to  me  a  most  tender  affectionate  nurse, 
and  did  all  she  could  towards  my  bodily 
relief,  for  which  1  trust  she  will  be  reward- 
ed here  and  hereafter/ 


1831,  5  mo.  8. — <My  soul  fervently  prays 
that  my  blessed,  precious  Redeemer  may 
alone  be  glorified,  praised,  and  exalted  over 
all,  for  this  his  encreasing  power,  as  for  all 
his  goodness  and  wondrous  works  on  me, 
an  unworthy,  unprofitable  servant.  I  praise 
and  adore  my  God,  for  all  his  acts  are  good ; 
of  the  encrease  of  his  government  there  shall 
be  no  end ;  he  has  redoubled  his  love  and 
peace  unto  me,  since  he  hath  laid  his  good 
hand  additionally  on  my  poor  body,  by  de- 
priving me  of  the  power  of  extolling  him 
with  my  tongue.*    Oh  !  that  all  things  may 

•  A  few  days  before  this  was  written  she  lost  the  power  of 
speech  ;  it  was  restored  to  her,  after  the  lapse  of  nearly  nine 
months,  and  a  short  time  before  her  decease. 


5S 

redound  to  his  great  glory:  I  shall  notecase 
my  silent  gratitude  and  praise,  I  hurably 
trust,  whilst  life  and  ability  are  granted  me. 
In  death  there  is  no  remembrance  of  thee,  in 
the  grave  who  shall  give  my  Saviour  thanks ! 
Oh !  praise  the  Lord,  all  ye  his  creatures, 
and  love  and  serve  him  I  beseech  you,  for 
he  is  worthy  above  all. — Oh  !  that  I  could 
serve  him  to  my  last  breath.  I  ardently 
crave  that  the  great  Lord  of  the  harvest 
may  be  pleased  to  send  forth  more  labourers 
into  his  liarvest,  which  truly  is  plenteous, 
but  the  labourers  are  few — more  is  the  pity ! 
— great  loss  of  peace  and  comfort  being  sus- 
tained by  the  negligent; — the  hand  of  the 
diligent  maketh  rich  in  the  spiritual  life — I 
wish  all  to  be  aroused  to  more  faithfulness, 
there  is  nothing  like  it.  Great  things  are  in 
store  for  those  who  love  my  good  Master, 
and  work  in  his  vineyard — the  reward  is 
rich  and  sure.  Believe  me,  I  know  it  now, 
and  rejoice  to  leave  a  proof  of  the  certainty 
of  it,  if  thereby  I  may  incline  survivors  to 
turn  unto  the  Lord  with  full  purpose  of 
heart,  and  serve  him  the  residue  of  their 
days,  Avhich  will  produce  them  real  happi- 
ness. Oh  !  the  bliss  which  my  soul  enjoys 
is  unutterable — may  every  creature  have  the 
same  to  declare  in  good  time.' 

Her  sister  Anne   having  asked  her  did 
she  think  she  should  not  speak  again,  she 


53 

wrote  as  follows  : — '  Not  known  to  me,  but 
be  content  and  resigned,  as  I  am  to  my  Sa- 
viour's will.  I  never  enjoyed  so  large  a 
share  of  happiness— join  me  in  praising  our 
Heavenly  Father,  and  in  every  thing  give 
him  thanks.  My  beloved  sisters,  be  faithful, 
and  lay  your  shoulders  to  his  blessed  work, 
so  will  the  Lord  bless  you  and  make  your 
sick  bed  happy,  as  lie  has  made  mine  ; — 
glory  be  to  his  ever  excellent  name — Amen, 
saith  my  soul— I  love  the  whole  race  of 
mankind  and  wish  all  as  happy  as  myself.^ 


5  mo.  16.-^1  wish  it  was  the  general 
practice  for  families  to  collect  their  domes- 
tics and  read  a  portion  of  the  Holy  Scrip- 
tures to  them  daily;  for  the  contents  of  the 
sacred  volume  cannot  be  too  much  promul- 
gated in  the  earth :  may  you,  my  beloved 
sisters,  be  in  this  practice,  and  on  first  days 
especially  ;  appropriate  not  that  day  to  visit- 
ing or  entertaining  company,  which  must  ne- 
cessarily require  attendance  and  labour. 

<  If  I  had  a  wish  to  return  to  the  world, 
it  would  be  to  set  an  example  of  simplicity 
and  serving  my  blessed  Redeemer  first  of 
all :  there  is  no  happiness  comparable  to  that 
which  results  from  faithfulness  to  the  Lord. 
That  yoU;  my  dear  sisters,  may  be  of  this 
5* 


54f 

happy  number  is  the  frequent  and  fervent 
prayer  of  my  soul  for  you  ;  so  will  you  be 
blessed.  I  can  promise  you  a  rich  reward 
from  an  easy  good  Master,  who  don't  re- 
quire any  thing  hard.  Oh  !  give  him  all  he 
shall  call  for  at  your  hands — you  cannot  re- 
sign too  much  for  his  dear  sake:  ^^  To  obey 
^*  is  better  than  sacrifice,  and  to  hearken  than 
•^  the  fat  of  rams/'  If  all  the  treasures  of  this 
vain  world  were  atmy  command,  1  should  with 
delight,  and  a  rejoicing  heart,  resign  them  for 
the  sake  of  a  faithful  Creator,  from  whom  I 
Lave  received  so  great  things — numerous  un- 
merited blessings  hath  he  shed  on  my  un- 
worthy head,  and  is  still  multiplying  his 
boundless  goodness.  Would  I  wish  to  re- 
sign such  loving  kindness?  1  say  no:  all 
temptation  would  be  insufficient  to  make  me 
give  up  my  beloved,  who,  I  hope,  1  have 
surrendered  my  whole  heart  unto ;  for  to  him 
alone  it  is  due.  The  Lord  giveth  and  the 
Lord  taketh  away,  blessed  be  the  name  of 
the  Lord. 

^  May  you  be  as  lights  in  the  world,  that 
others  s<^eing  your  good  works  may  be  in- 
duced to  follow  your  footsteps,  and  glorify 
your  Heavenly  Father,  to  whom  I  tenderly 
advise  you  to  keep  a  single  eye — let  him  be 
your  chief  dependance,  and  have  the  first 
place  in  your  affections.  1  love  you  as  a  sis- 
ter 5  but  there  is  added  a  pure  love  which 


5d 

many  waters  cannot  quench,  nor  the  floods 
of  adversity  destroy — it  reaches  over  sea  and 
land. 

^  It  is  a  fine  attainment  to  he  at  peace  with 
the  Almighty,  and  to  he  ready  for  the  pale 
spectre,  which,  though  awful,  has  no  ter- 
rors for  me ;  my  precious  Saviour  has  taken 
away  the  sting.  Oh  Death !  where  is  thy 
sting?  Oh,  Grave !  where  is  thy  victory? 
All  praises,  glory,  honour,  and  dominion  he 
ascribed  to  the  name  of  the  Lord,  the  great 
Jehovah,  now  and  for  evermore,  saith  my 
converted,  happy  soul ! — xlmen.' 


5  mo.  18. — ^  This  has  been  a  precious, 
happy  day,  like  many  preceding  it,  visited 
by  the  renewings  of  my  Heavenly  Father's 
love.  Oh !  the  beams  of  his  benign,  blessed 
countenance,  would  cheer  the  most  gloomy 
abode,  and  enliven  the  dreary  confines  of  a 
dungeon.  My  time  glides  happily,  and  ap- 
parently swifter  than  when  enjoying  health  : 
may  I  fancy  myself  a  partaker  of  heavenly 
joys,  though  still  an  inhabitant  of  these 
lower  regions  ?  Have  I  a  grateful  heart,  or 
am  I  diligent  in  returning  thee  thy  own,  my 
dear  Lord,  as  thou  art  graciously  pleased  to 
grant  me  ability  so  to  do?  Oh  !  that  Thou, 
who  art  the  bountiful  giver  of  every  blessing, 


56 

may  vouchsafe  to  coatinue  with  me,  and 
cause  my  heart  to  overflow  with  gratitude 
and  praise  unto  thee,  whilst  thou  art  pleased 
to  leave  me  in  this  state  of  being.  And, 
dearest  Father,  preserve  me  faithful,  obedi- 
ent, patient  and  resigned,  to  await  the  time 
when  it  shall  be  consistent  with  thy  unerring 
will  to  grant  my  spirit  a  release  from  cap- 
tivity, and  unite  it  to  thy  church  triumphant 
in  singing  praises  and  hallelujahs  to  thy  sa- 
cred and  ever-worthy  name,  through  a 
boundless,  happy  eternity,  world  without 
end. — Amen.' 


A  little  girl  being  brought  to  her  bedside, 
she  afterwards  wrote  as  follows : — 

'  On  seeing  that  sweet  little  babe,  the  em- 
blem of  innocence,  I  was  led  to  contemplate 
the  pure  state  the  soul  must  arrive  at,  that  is 
admitted  into  paradise ;  which  our  Saviour 
said,  must  be  as  a  little  child,  before  any 
could  enter  the  kingdom  of  Heaven.  It  is  a 
great  attainment  to  be  one  of  these  happy 
babes  in  Christ,  our  Lord  and  Redeemer; 
to  know  that  the  will  is  become  subservient 
as  a  little  babe,  in  every  thing  obedient  to 
Divine  power  and  command,  not  daring  to 
make  any  opposition  thereto.' 


57 

5  mo.  SO. — '  My  dear  Redeemer's  blessed 
words  when  on  earth  were — "'My  meat  is 
^*  to  do  the  will  of  Him  that  sent  me:'' — 
this^  I  humbly  trust,  has  been  my  greatest 
delight  for  some  time  past:  it  is  truly  plea- 
santto  obey  the  will  of  my  Heavenly  Fa- 
ther, even  in  what  may  appear  trifling ;  all 
bring  a  rich  reward  of  peace,  which  fully 
compensates  for  every  surrender,  however 
much  in  the  cross  it  is  made. 

^  ^'  I  am  the  bread  of  life,''  said  the  dear 
Lord;  [and,  in  another  place,]  ^^Whoso- 
^^  ever  drinketh  of  the  water  that  1  shall 
^•'  give  him,  shall  never  thirst;  but  the  water 
^^  that  I  shall  give  him  shall  be  in  him,  a  well 
^^  of  water  springing  up  into  everlastinglife.'^ 
Oh !  my  soul,  thou  hast  eaten  freely  of  the 
bread  which  thy  heavenly  Father  dispenses 
with  a  bountiful  hand,  satisfying  liberally 
thy  daily  wants  and  desires.  Those  who 
ask  this  spiritual  nourishment,  in  faith,  will 
not  fail  of  finding  it,  which  animates  and 
inspires  with  renewed  hope  and  confidence 
in  the  goodness  and  mercies  of  an  omnipo- 
tent Deity,  without  whom  we  should  be 
miserable,  hopeless,  helpless,  and  comfort- 
less creatures — in  perpetual  danger  but  for 
his  watchful,  protecting  eye,  \^  hich  neither 
slumbers  nor  sleeps — a  faithful,  good  shep- 
herd, looking  over  his  flock  lest  the  wolf 
should  catch  any  to  destroy  them.     We  are 


58 

poor  finite  creatures,  cannot  do  the  least 
good  thing  of  ourselves — continually  depen- 
dent on  a  superintendiug  power  for  every 
thing:  what  have  we  to  exalt  us  or  to  boast 
of,  but  all  to  humble  and  abase  self  and  con- 
trite our  spirits  ?  What  meekness  and  low- 
liness of  mind  we  ought  to  possess — made 
after  the  similitude  of  him  who  was  meek 
and  lowly  of  heart,  plain  and  simple  in  his 
appearance,  whose  coat  was  woven  without 
a  seam.  Oh  !  I  love  to  dwell  near  a  dear 
Lord,  studying  his  miraculous  acts,  and 
condescending  goodness,  all  for  poor  fallen 
mankind,  in  order  to  raise  to  glory  and  hap- 
piness those  who  will  seek  his  redemption, 
and  look  unto  him  as  their  only  Saviour, 
and  hope  of  the  immortal  soul.  My  pros- 
pects are  so  bright,  and  the  way  to  eternity 
so  clear  and  unobscured,  that  I  compare  it 
to  a  cloudless  sky  on  a  fine  day. 

'  I  feel  grateful  in  having  ability  granted 
me  thus  to  leave  a  little  memorial  of  my 
continued  unmerited  happiness,  for  the  com- 
fort and  encouragement  of  survivors,  if  there- 
by I  shall  induce  any  not  to  pass  unnoticed 
so  great  and  marvellous  works,  or  slight 
that  Providence  who  is  merciful  to  all  trans- 
gressors, the  least  of  whose  goodness  1  am 
undeserving  of.  Forget  not  then  his  won- 
drous works,  but  seek  him  diligently,  and 
confide  in  hini  alone ;  he  will  not  disappoint 


59 

you — he  never  disappointed  me,  nor  denied 
me  any  comfort,  either  spiritual  or  temporal, 
which  his  Divine  wisdom  saw  meet  1  should 
enjoy :  thus  should  all  be  contented  and 
thankful,  giving  praise  for  all  dispensations, 
^'  most  for  the  severe.''  Never  did  I  enjoy 
more  calmness,  serenity,  or  peace,  than  since 
the  power  of  articulation  ceased;  my  never- 
failing  Comforter  enabling  my  trembling 
fingers  to  declare  his  goodness.  Oh  !  may 
all  things  redound  to  his  everlasting  praise  ; 
and  glorify,  exalt,  and  magnify  his  ever- 
worthy  name,  above  all  in  heaven  and  on 
earth — his  marvellous  doings  all  declare  his 
majesty.  I  believe  it  is  wisely  ordained, 
that  others  beside  myself  shall  benefit  by 
this  long-protracted  illness ;  if  such  be  the 
gracious  design,  I  rejoice  to  have  been 
chosen  a  sufferer  for  the  sake  of  Him  who 
bled  for  me. 

^The  christian  life  is  a  continual  warfare; 
or  something  similar  to  a  sea-voyage,  pros- 
perous part  of  the  time,  but  often  are  poor 
mariners  disappointed,  and  are  wrecked 
within  view  of  land  ;  so  frail  man,  toiling 
on  this  ocean  of  trouble,  is  liable  to  attacks 
from  an  unwearied  enemy,  which  endanger 
his  safety,  and  sometimes  terminate  in  ruin. 
A  tine  morning  is  often  succeeded  by  a  tem- 
pestuous evening ;  no  time  of  life  are  we 
secure,  but  whilst  under  the  immediate  pro- 


60 

tection  of  that  Providence  and  sure  Pilot, 
■whose  power  is  invincible,  able  to  deliver 
from  the  most  imminent  perils  ;  who  hath 
said.  '*My  grace  is  sufficient  for  thee.''  The 
Lord  is  a  sure  refuge  in  the  day  of  trial, 
and  a  present  help  in  every  time  of  need ; 
he  Plrengtheneth  the  weak  hands,  and  cou- 
finneth  the  feeble  knees  ;  he  is  a  shelter 
from  the  heat,  and  as  the  shadow  of  a  great 
rock  in  a  weary  land.  "VVatch  and  pray, 
''  that  ye  enter  not  into  temptation/'  said 
the  Holy  Pattern  of  all  goodness.  The 
prnud  billows,  or  high  towering  rocks,  may 
overwhelm  some,  and  others  may  sink  in 
the  quicksands  of  despair,  but  the  good 
Pilot  can  steer  clear  of  all  danger,  and 
brin?;  safe  to  shore. 

'  Day  after  day  rolls  on,  and  I  am  still  a 
living  monument  of  the  mercies  ahd  won- 
drons  power  of  that  good  Hand  that  has 
indicted  all  for  a  wise  purpose.  Extreme 
dei.ility  is  my  portion,  I  suffer  much  at  in- 
tervals: I  hope,  through  all,  I  have  a  thank- 
ful heart,  preserved  from  murmuring.  I  am 
well  rewarded  for  all,  and  much  more.  He 
who  gradually  reduces  the  bodily  powers  is 
graciously  pleased  to  renew  and  strengthen 
the  mental,  so  that  as  the  outward  man  de- 
cays and  grows  weaker,  the  inward  man 
becomes  stronger  and  stronger. — This  is  the 
Lord's  doingj  and  marvellous  in  our  eyes  ! 


61 

— May  it  be  indelibly  sealed  on  every  heart 
that  has  heard,  or  known  and  witnessed 
such  continued,  unmerited  loving  kindness. 
Eye  hath  not  seen,  nor  ear  heard,  O  God ! 
what  thou  hast  prepared  for  them  that  love 
thee. — Take  courage  and  use  diligence ; 
there  is  the  same  in  store  for  all  who  seek 
in  sincerity,  and  patiently  wait  the  dear  Re- 
deemer's good  time  for  every  blessing;  they 
that  have  faith  and  believe,  shall  find  things 
comparable  to  mountains  removed^  those 
that  trust  in  the  Lord  shall  not  be  disap- 
pointed;  I  have  experienced  the  proof;  let 
none  fear  or  be  dismayed,  the  Father  of  mer- 
cies, the  Fountain  of  living  waters,  is  inex- 
haustible and  endureth  for  ever.  Thanks- 
giving, glory,  and  praise  are  due  to  Him 
alone,  who  only  doeth  any  good  thing !  I 
must  praise  the  name  of  my  Redeemer  whilst 
I  live,  and  magnify  his  excellence;  he  is  my 
chief  love — I  love  all  my  Creator  loves : 
God  is  love,  and  they  that  dwell  in  God 
dwell  in  love — he  is  all  love.  '*  Love  one 
"  another  as  I  have  loved  you,"  was  an  in- 
junction left  by  the  dear  Saviour  with  his 
disciples  :  Oh  !  that  the  whole  race  of  man- 
kind were  his  followers,  then  should  they 
be  happy. 

'  I  cannot  wish  any  creature  a  higher  at- 
tainment, than  to  enjoy  the  portion  of  bliss 
dispensed  unto  me  by  my  Heavenly  Parent, 
6 


6^ 

ever  bouniiful  of  his  gifts ;  nor  a  more  rick 
reward  for  thee,  my  beloved  sister,  who  has 
so  often  administered  to  my  bodily  necessi- 
ties, indefatigable  and  unremitting  in  thy 
aftectionate  attentions,  endeavouring  to  soothe 
and  comfort  me  all  in  thy  power  during  this 
long  illness  : — Oh  !  may  the  Almighty  bless 
thee,  as  he  has  blessed  thy  unworthy  sister, 
which  I  desire  to  be  more  and  more  sensible 
of,  knowing  1  never  deserved  the  favours 
received ;  mayest  thou  feel  the  same  support 
on  a  sick  bed ;  whenever  it  shall  please  In- 
iinite  Wisdom  to  confine  thee  to  that  narrow 
space,  may  he  make  it  as  happy  as  mine  has 
been,  and  comfort  thee  by  his  good  presence, 
which  only  can  buoy  thee  up  under  all  af- 
flictions, and  enable  to  endure  the  pains  of 
disease  without  repining,  or  even  thinking 
the  time  tedious  or  long.  Thou  hast  often 
witnessed  the  manifold  kindness  of  Provi- 
dence, and  his  wonderful  works,  whilst  en- 
gaged with  me,  and  I  sincerely  desire  thou 
mayest  never  sufter  these  numerous  tokens 
of  Divine  love  to  be  erased  from  thy  remem- 
brance.^ 


5  mo.  21. — ^Whilst  this  poor  body  lingers 
under  the  weight  of  disease,  the  soul,  never 
Vvcaried  waiting  on  its  beloved  Lord,  re- 


63 

plenished  with  dew  from  on  liigb,  soars  aloft 
on  wings  like  an  eagle,  and  faintetb  not; — 
they  that  wait  on  thee  O  Lord  !  shall  find 
their  strength  renew  ed.  When  attained  unto 
the  measure  and   stature  of  the  fulness  of 
grace,  we  are  no  longer  strangers  to  the  new 
birth,  but  are  as  new    born   babes,  desiring 
the  sincere  milk  of  the  Word.  Oh  !  my  soul 
art  thou   a  babe  in   Christ  thy  Redeemer, 
who  can  alone  cleanse,  and  keep  from   siii 
and   corruption  ?— hast   thou,    through    the 
washing  of  regeneration  passed  from   death 
unto  life;  and  become  a  child  of  God,   and 
inheritor  of  the  kingdom   of  Heaven,   ever 
delighted  to  hear  the  pure  word  of  thy  be- 
loved?— It  is  a  fine  thing  to  know  that  we 
are  born  again,  thereby  becoming  "  heirs  of 
i'  God,  and  joint  heirs  with  Christ"  in  his 
kingdom  of  glory.— Better  is  it  to  seek  after 
a  knowledge  of  the  things  that  pertain  to. 
our  peace,  than  to  be  over  anxious  for  the 
wisdom  of  this  world,  which  is  foolishness 
with  God — "  Fear  God,  and  keep  his  com- 
'i  mandments,  for  this  is  the  whole  duty  of 
'i  man  ;  for  God  shall  bring  every  work  into 
^^  judgment,   with  every  secret  thing,   whe- 
"  ther  it  be  good  or  whether  it  be  evil.'' 

'  My  dear  sister,  thou  who  art  a  parent, 
consider  the  responsibility  of  thy  situation, 
and  the  pure  state  in  which  thy  beloved 
charge  are  delivered  to  thee ;  sow  not  the 


64? 

seeds  of  coiTuption,  by  indulging  the  vain 
mind  as  it  expands  ;  endeavour  to  preserve 
tlieir  iunocence  as  they  advance  in  life ;  nip 
every  evil  propensity  in  the  bud,  suffer  no 
noxious  weeds  to  take  root  and  grow,  which 
destroy  all  tender  plants. — Oh !  that  these 
lambs,  entrusted  to  thy  care  by  the  Hea- 
venly Shepherd,  as  they  grow  in  years,  may 
grow  in  grace,  and  in  favour  with  God  and 
man.  The  forming  and  training  of  the  in- 
fant mind  devolves  mostly  on  mothers,  (par- 
ticularly that  of  girls,)  they  had  need  to  seek 
best  wisdom  as  their  guide  in  this  important 
duty — this  alone  is  able  to  direct  in  all  the 
concerns  of  life.  Early  inculcate  a  love  and 
reverence  for  their  Creator,  and  a  fear  of  of- 
fending him  in  thought,  w  ord,  or  deed.  In- 
struct the  tender  mind  in  the  principles  of 
piety  and  virtue,  instilling  therein  an  early 
love  of  both ;  keep  them  humble  in  ideas, 
plain  and  simple  in  their  dress :  humility 
goes  before  honour,  and  a  haughty  spirit  be- 
fore a  fall.  Winking  at  the  foibles  of  chil- 
dren is  mistaken  fondness,  and  often  to  be 
regretted  in  more  mature  years ;  it  is  not,  in 
my  view,  any  mark  of  real  parental  love, 
nor  can  it  contribute  to  the  comfort  of  pa- 
rents or  children.  May  they  in  after  life  re- 
quite your  care  of  their  puerile  years  by  walk- 
ing in  the  Truth,  which,  that  they  may  love, 
and  choose  for  their  portion,  is  my  chief 


65 

wish  for  them.  I  fear  not  their  further  pros- 
perity if  Truth  be  their  guide  in  all  their 
actions  ;  I  covet  for  them  to  buy  the  Truth 
early  and  sell  it  not — the  first  impressions 
are  generally  most  permanent,  in  which  the 
greater  care  should  be  observed  to  guard 
the  young  mind,  endeavouring  to  store  it 
with  good — 

"  'Tis  education  forms  the  tender  mind, 
"Just  as  the  twig  is  bent,  the  tree's  inclinM."' 


5  mo.  22. — *  This  day  very  ill,  thanks 
and  praise  to  my  dear  Lord ;  no  sleep  from 
between  twelve  and  one  o'clock  last  night : 
'>^^^all  my  comforts  proceed  from  the  one  great 
source,  and  if  humbly  and  gratefully  ac- 
knowledged, the  end  will  crown  every  thing 
and  terminate  all  suffering — 

"  How  long,  O  Lord !  shall  mortal  clay, 

"  Detain  my  soul  from  thee ; 
"  When  shall  the  welcome  message  come, 

"  To  set  the  captive  free  : 
"  Oh  !  may  I  here  in  patience  wait, 

*'  Till  Jesus  me  to  bliss  translate." 

'He  is  w^ell  worth  waiting  for  and  watch- 
ing diligently :  I  desire  to  maintain  a  strict 
watch,  that  I  may  not  be  taken  at  unawares. 

^Hitherto  1  have  helped  thee  and  will 
6* 


66 

help. — la  quietness  and  confidence  will  be 
thy  strength.  These  assurances  have  long 
attended  my  mind,  united  with  this  comfort- 
ing language:  ^^Thou  wilt  keep  him  in  per- 
*^  feet  peace  whose  mind  is  stayed  on  thee.'' 
All  hath  been  verified  through  the  unmerit- 
ed goodness  and  great  power  of  my  precious 
Kedeemer,  who  hath  done  all  for  me — my 
confidence  remains  unshaken;  I  fear  not  the 
same  preservation  being  graciously  vouch- 
safed to  the  end  of  my  pilgrimage, — my 
dear  Saviour  can  and  will,  I  humbly  trust, 
keep  my  courage  undaunted,  let  what  will 
befal  me  :  under  the  shadow  of  his  wings 
shall  I  take  refuge,  the  only  sure  hiding 
place.  Oh !  may  all  be  inspired  with  full 
assurance  to  rely  entirely  on  the  Rock  of 
ages,  against  which  the  gates  of  hell  shall 
never  prevail.' 


5  mo.  26. — *  Twelve  months  to-morrow 
since  my  dear  Anne  was  at  meeting ;  I  be- 
lieve next  day  was  the  attack  which  put  a 
period  to  my  ever  walking  down  stairs.  I 
praise  and  thank  the  Almighty  good  hand 
that  did  all  for  my  redemption.  The  body 
only  is  afflicted,  the  soul  goes  on  its  way 
rejoicing  in  its  Creator;  yea,  my  soul  doth 
magnify  the  Lord  and  my  spirit  hath  rejoiced 


67 

ia  God  iny  Saviour,  who  bath  regarded  the 
low  estate  of  his  handmaid,  and  from  hence- 
forth all  may  say,  I  have  been  marvellously 
blessed  and  cared  for — all  my  days  are 
happy. — Oh !  gratitude  dost  thou  flow  in 
my  heart  to  my  Maker. — Providence  has 
preserved  my  memory  unimpaired  through 
all,  blessed  for  ever  be  his  holy  and  worthy 
name,  he  has  done  all  for  me : — I  wish  I 
may  not  pass  unnoticed,  the  least  token  of 
divine  love. 


5  mo.  Sy. — ^I  have  close  combat  this  day 
with  the  feelings  of  nature,  being  nearly 
tried,  parting  with  a  dear  sister,  probably 
for  the  last  time :  if  not  for  the  divine  arm 
which  never  leaves  me  helpless  I  must  be- 
tray human  weakness;  that  is  a  sure  anchor 
to  rest  on,  but  for  it,  what  should  I  be,  a 
poor  frail  mortal,  destitute  of  all  good. — la 
our  flesh  dvvelleth  corruption  and  impurity. 
Our  blessed  Lord  was  seen  to  weep  several 
times,  but  nevrr  to  laugh — he  wept  over  the 
fallen  state  of  Jerusalem,  and  for  Lazarus 
whom  he  loved  ;  1  believe  he  will  forgive  a 
few  involuntary  tears  this  day  starting  in 
mine  eyes;  knowing  our  weakness,  he  pities 
those  that  fear  him.  Truly  my  soul  waiteth 
on  God;  from  him  cometh  my  help — he  only 


68 

is  my  defence,  I  shall  not  be  greatly  moved. 
Do  thou,  my  dear  sister,  try  to  keep  a  firm 
hold  of  confidence,  fortitude,  and  resigna- 
tion ;  that  whenever  it  shall  please  infinite 
Wisdom  to  strike  the  separating  blow,  thou 
mayest  know  where  to  fly  for  succour  and 
comfort,  which  if  diligently  sought  after  will 
never  disappoint.  Oh!  that  Comforter,  even 
the  Spirit  of  Truth,  which  leadeth  into  all 
truth,  is  well  worth  an  indefatigable  search. 
I  feel  assured  that  he  who  is  faithful,  uner- 
ring, and  a  covenant  keeping  God,  will  be 
near  my  beloved  Anne  in  the  hour  of  trial, 
if  the  fault  be  not  her  own.  He  hath  proved 
to  me,  that  they  who  trust  him  shall  not 
trust  in  vain.' 


5  mo.  29. — ^  "  Peace,"  said  the  dear  Son 
of  God,  "  I  leave  with  you,  my  peace  I 
<^give  unto  you;  not  as  the  world  giveth^ 


'^  give  V ' 


5  mo.  30. — *  Peace,  sweet  peace,  thou  art 
not  to  be  slighted  by  me,  but  must  be  gain- 
ed by  obeciience.  Oh !  my  beloved  sister,  1 
am  again  brought  into  the  low  valley  of 
humiliation;  by  feeling  that  I  am  bound;  in 


69 

duty  and  obedience^  to  the  still  small  voice, 
wliich  I  dare  not  disobey  now,  to  see  any  of 
my  friends  who  shall  incline  to  look  at 
a  happy,  redeemed  creature,  deprived  of 
strength  to  convey  to  them  any  thing  by 
speech.  This  morning  it  has  been  clearly 
revealed,  that  I  must  show  unto  others  the 
continued  goodness  of  my  dear  Lord,  and 
the  great  things  he  is  still  doing  for  me;  and 
though  not  able  to  declare  any  thing  ver- 
bally, I  must  let  them  judge  from  my  coun- 
tenance, the  peace  and  happiness  T  enjoy  in 
this  act  of  obedience  to  the  Divine  will :  I 
am  assured  it  shall  bring  me  its  reward, 
both  whilst  in  this  state  and  in  eternity. 
Oh !  I  dare  not  refuse,  however  repugnant 
to  human  nature.  I  do  not  discriminate,  but 
desire  that  such  friends  as  feel  a  wish  may 
be  gratified.  I  hope  curiosity  will  not  in- 
fluence one,  for  to  me  it  is  awful  not  to  obey 
in  every  thing,  and  complying  in  this  in- 
stance is  deeply  humiliating  to  the  natural 
will  in  my  now  reduced  state. 

'  We  are  not  to  question  the  acts  of  the 
Most  High,  nor  to  say,  '^  What  doest  thou  ?" 
but  to  be  passive  in  his  holy  hand.  I  hum- 
bly trust  this  requiring  may  be  beneficial  to 
survivors,  and  induce  in  all  a  total  surren- 
der of  their  own  wills  to  the  great  Ruler, 
who  can  bless  or  blight  our  prospects  in  the 
twinkling  of  an  eye.     Marvellous  are  the 


70 

Lord's  works.  Oh !  may  such  as  have  seen 
me,  and  now  behold  again  the  wondrous 
doings  of  the  Almighty,  never  forget  the 
scene.  I  believe  I  am  designed  to  be  of 
lasting  advantage  to  some  in  this  meeting, 
if  the  fault  be  not  their  own ;  may  it  finally 
prove  so,  and  1  rejoice  to  be  a  sufferer  in  the 
hand  of  Omnipotence;  for  his  worthy  name's 
sake  I  give  up  all.  I  am  promised  support  in 
this  as  in  former  exertions.  I  believe  every 
little  sacrifice  will  produce  its  reward  to  those 
who  submit  the  offering  demanded.' 


To  some  of  her  friends  who  came  to  see 
her  she  wrote  thus  : — '  May  this  act  of  de- 
dication to  the  divine  will  redound  to  the 
praise  and  glory  of  Him  to  whom  it  is  due. 
I  wish  this  visit  may  be  sealed  on  each  of 
our  minds    my    beloved   friends — my  dear 

love  to tell  him  I  wish  he  may  turn 

unto  the  Lord,  and  serve  him  all  his  future 
life.  My  chief  delight  is  in  seeking  a  reve- 
lation of  the  sacred  will,  and  acting  consist- 
ent therewith — thus  brought  to  a  child-like 
state  of  control.  Oh  !  it  is  truly  pleasant 
to  obey  thee  my  precious  Redeemer.' 


71 

5  mo.  30. — ^  My  soul  thou  art  this  day 
filled  with  treasures  which  lie  concealed^ 
thou  art  enriched  and  made  fat  with  joy ; 
thus  thou  art  rewarded  for  being  obedient ; 
my  peace  may  be  said  to  flow  as  a  river. — 
^^  He  brought  me  into  his  banq netting  house, 
''  and  his  banner  over  me  was  love'^ — the 
altogether  lovely,  the  chief  among  ten  thou- 
sand is  my  beloved  ;  his  voice  it  is  sweet, 
and  his  countenance  is  comely;  my  beloved 
is  mine  and  I  am  his — yes,  my  dearest  Je- 
sus, thou  art  mine,  and  I  humbly  hope  I  am 
thine  forever  and  ever.  I  would  rather  be  a 
doorkeeper  in  thy  holy  house  than  dwell  in 
the  tents  of  wickedness. 

^Oh!  when  will  thy  good  time  arrive,  to 
release  my  captive  spirit? — but  I  must  not 
be  impatient :  I  now  see  I  was  too  anxious 
to  be  gone  to  rest ;  I  am  thankful  that  I  was 
disappointed,  knowing  it  is  for  some  good 
and  wise  purpose  that  my  life  is  prolonged, 
for  which,  as  for  every  blessing,  I  praise 
the  great  Disposer  of  events,  whose  decrees 
are  all  in  wisdom,  and  his  ways  just  and 
equal.  Lay  not  up  for  yourselves  treasures 
on  earth,  but  lay  up  treasures  in  heaven  ;  for 
where  your  treasure  is,  there  will  your  heart 
be  also  : — seek  first  the  kingdom  of  God  and 
his  righteousness,  and  every  thing  necessary 
will  be  added  unto  you.  May  I  be  faithful, 
obedient,  and  patient  to  the  end,  and  be 


7S 

made  a  pillar  in  the  house  of  my  God,  to  go 
no  more  out.  I  am  aii  undeserving^  unpro- 
fitable servant,  but  I  have  a  merciful  Judge 
to  appear  before,  whose  forgiveness  of  my 
past  errors,  though  numerous,  I  have  no 
doubt  of:  T  hope  they  have  already  appear- 
ed in  judgment  and  are  blotted  out. 

^  It  is  a  fearful  state  to  despise  the  day  of 
small  things,  or  slight  the  offers  of  Omnipo- 
tence; to  deny  or  be  ashamed  of  Him, 
through  the  shedding  of  whose  precious 
blood  all  are  saved,  by  having  their  robes 
washed  and  purified  therein.  Let  such  as 
are  conscious  of  denying  the  Holy  One  and 
the  Just,  the  Prince  of  Peace,  take  care  that 
if  they  persist  in  so  doing,  he  may  "  laugh 
"'^  at  their  calamity,  and  mock  when  their 
"  fear  cometh.^'  I  earnestly  wish  that  the 
eyes  of  these  may  be  speedily  opened  to 
behold  their  critical  and  awful  situation,  un- 
less they  return  with  a  repentant  heart. 

^I  tenderly  entreat  all,  to  bear  their  cross 
and  despise  the  shame,  counting  it  a  glory  to 
suffer  in  the  cause  of  a  dear  crucified  Saviour, 
who  bled  for  the  remission  of  sins,  who  is  the 
only  salvation  of  every  soul,  and  who  declar- 
ed, "  he  that  taketh  not  his  cross  and  foUow- 
"  eth  after  me  is  not  worthy  of  me  ;*'  and 
^^  whosoever  shall  confess  me  before  men, 
''  him  will  I  also  confess  before  my  Father 
*^  which  is  in  heaven,  but  whosoever  shall 


73 

^^  deny  me  before  men,  him  will  T  also  deny 
^^  before  my  Father  which  is  in  heaven.'' — 
Why  am  1  thus  exercised,  unless  for  a  warn- 
ing call  to  backsliders?  Oh!  that  none  may 
be  "  like  the  deaf  adder,  that  stoppeth  her 
^^  ear,  which  will  not  listen  to  the  voice  of 
"  charmers,  charming  never  so  wisely.''  ^ 


5  mo.  81. — ''  Stay  me  with  flagons,  com- 
^^fort  me  with  apples,  for  I  am  sick  of  love.'^ 
— Thus  is  the  church  described  with  her  be- 
loved ;  so  I  venture  to  compare  my  own 
state  this  day,  a  cup  overflov*  ing  with  peace, 
love  and  joy.  Oh  bliss  unutterable !  almost 
too  much  to  bear  whilst  clad  in  mortal  garb : 
who  would  wish  to  stay,  serving  this  fading 
world,  pursuing  its  deceitful  allurements  ? 

"  They  build  too  low  who  build  beneath  the  skies." 

'Is  it  not  inviting  to  serve  with  fidelity, 
and  obey  w  ith  alacrity,  every  requiring  of 
so  good  a  Master,  who  requites  thus  liberal- 
ly?— nothing  should  tempt  to  refuse  acqui- 
escence at  all  times.  Through  the  tender 
dealings  and  power  of  the  Most  High  my 
will  is  subjected,  and  I  hope  ever  to  yield 
compliance  during  my  existence.  Yes,  my 
soul,  thou  art  firmly  fixed,  and  enjoys  too 
large  a  share  of  happiness  to  dare  be  un- 
7 


grateful,  by  opposing  the  will  of  thy  Maker 
ia  any  degree.  To  persevere  in  resistance 
is  vain,  for  as  the  sturdy  oak  bends  to  the 
axe  of  the  feller,  so  must  the  most  resolute 
will  finally  bend  to  the  power  of  a  Supreme 
Huler.  The  tall  cedars  of  Lebanon  and  the 
lofty  oaks  of  Bashan  must  bow  ;  all  high 
looks  and  every  proud  heart  will  the  Lord 
bring  down.  ^^Grod  resisteth  the  proud,  but 
^^  giveth  grace  unto  the  humble — whosoever 
"  exalteth  himself  shall  be  abased,  and  he 
•^that  humbleth  himself  shall  be  exalted.'^ 
In  prosperity  be  not  puffed  up,  and  in  ad- 
versity do  thou  consider.  '•  If  ye  be  willing 
"  and  obedient  ye  shall  eat  the  good  of  the 
'^  land." — '*  The  meek  will  he  guide  in 
^^  judgment,  and  the  meek  will  he  teach  his 
^'  way.'' — "  It  is  of  the  Lord's  mercies  that 
'•  we  are  not  consumed,  because  his  compas- 
'^  sions  fail  not ;  they  are  new  every  morn- 
^^ing;  great  is  thy  faithfulness." 

'  It  is  all  grace,  free,  unmerited  grace, 
whereby  we  are  saved.  ^^All  our  righteous- 
''  nesses  are  as  filthy  rags."  Dare  not  to 
ascribe  any  thing,  however  trifling,  to  the 
creature,  but  give  all  honour  and  praise  to 
the  Creator,  from  whom  cometh  every  good 
thing  we  possess. — Self  should  always  be 
abased  as  in  dust  and  ashes ;  a  poor  frail 
worm  of  the  earth,  full  of  sin  and  corrup- 
tion, void  of  any  good.     May  the  dear  Son 


75 

of  God,  the  Lamb  immaculate,  become  the 
joy  and  praise  of  the  whole  earth.  1  have 
none  in  heaven  but  thee,  nor  in  the  earth  that 
I  desire  in  comparison  of  thee,  my  precious, 
blessed  Redeemer,  who  has  done  all  for  my 
purification.  It  is  a  truth,  that  "  the  heart 
^'  knoweth  his  own  bitterness,  and  a  stranger 
*^  doth  not  intermeddle  with  his  joy.^^ ' 


6  mo.  2. — •  By  my  external  composure, 
judge  the  reigning  internal  calm  and  quiet. 
Suppose  not,  my  dear  friends,  that  I  am  de- 
pressed on  seeing  you,  since  articulation 
has  ceased ;  I  feel  gratitude  and  praise  fill 
my  heart  in  being  strengthened  in  this  act 
of  obedience  to  my  great  Master,  believing 
it  intended  to  be  of  use  to  those  who  here 
witness  the  wondrous  works,  and  continued 
mercies  of  a  kind  omnipotent  Ruler,  that 
has  inspired  me  with  a  lively  interest  in  his 
glorious  cause,  and  fortified  human  weak- 
ness to  serve  him  through  all,  however 
great  the  cross.  Require  what  thou  wilt, 
my  dear  Lord,  only  speak  the  word  and 
thy  servant  shall  obey,  having  by  thine  own 
power  and  love  effected  entire  submission, 
and  a  total  surrender  of  self  for  thy  dear 
sake ;  nothing  is  too  much  to  give  up,  thou 
hast  made  hard  things  easy  and  bitter  things 


76 

sweet;  witiiout  thee  I  am  helpless  and  des- 
titute  :  I  doubt  not  thy  sustaining,  comfort- 
ing presence  to  the  close  of  life ;  thou  art 
my  only  hope,  and  may  all  terminate  in  thy 
glory,  honour,  and  praise;  promoting  a  faith- 
ful service  in  thy  blessed  work  on  earth,  for 
thou,  my  beloved  Redeemer,  art  alone 
worthy  to  be  loved,  served,  feared,  and 
obeyed  for  evermore ! 

'  I  am  far  more  than  repaid  for  all  out- 
ward privations ;  every  morning,  yea,  each 
moment  demands  my  humble  gratitude  and 
unremitting  assiduity.  As  the  hand  of  the 
diligent  bringeth  riches  in  the  temporal,  so 
it  doth  in  the  spiritual  life.  May  the  aged, 
the  middle  aged,  and  young,  be  excited  to 
continual  labour,  and  seriously  consider  the 
uncertain  moment,  when  the  inhabitants  of 
these  tottering  mansions  of  clay  may  be  call- 
ed, prepared  or  unprepared,  to  meet  the  great 
just  Judge  of  quick  and  dead,  who  weigheth 
our  actions  in  an  even  balance: — Be  ye 
ready  in  waiting  for  the  sound  of  the  trumpet. 

'  I  ardently  crave  that  the  number  of  truly 
devoted  servants  may  increase,  that  the  de- 
solations and  numerous  breaches  made  in 
the  Lord^s  camp,  through  unfaithfulness  to 
the  principle,  may  be  soon  repaired  thereby. 
O,  Zion!  thou  glorious  Mount  Zion!  a  quiet 
habitation,  peace  be  within  thy  walls,  and 
prosperity  within  tliy  palaces ;  raayest  thou 


77 

become  the  beauty  ami  joy  of  all  nations. 
Each  of  yon^  my  beloved  friends,  press  for- 
ward to  the  mark ;  take  up  your  cross,  and 
finally  obtain  the  prize  in  view.  The  race 
is  not  to  the  swift,  nor  the  battle  to  the 
strong.  Let  such  as  are  invited  to  the  mar- 
riage supper  take  care  of  making  excuses, 
lest  the  halt  and  the  maimed,  or  those  in  the 
highways  and  hedges,  should  be  made  par- 
takers thereof,  and  you  cast  out.  Oh  !  it  is 
an  awful  thing  to  delay,  or  refuse  the  hea- 
venly visitation  ;  many  are  called  but  few 
are  chosen ;  the  last  shall  be  first  and  the 
first  last.  I  pray  the  Lord  of  the  vineyard 
that  he  may  send  forth  labourers  into  his 
vineyard,  each  to  receive  the  reward,  they 
who  work  but  one  hour,  as  they  that  bear 
the  burden  and  heat  of  the  day. 

^  My  desires  are  frequent,  and  I  hope  sin- 
cere, to  be  preserved  from  any  selfish  mo- 
tive influencing  my  actions,  in  leaving  a  me- 
morial of  unmerited  favours  so  bountifully 
bestowed  on  me.  The  honour  and  praise  of 
my  Maker,  I  humbly  trust,  are  now  my 
chief  delight  to  seek.  I  hope  I  am  not  de- 
ceived in  believing  that  the  main  bent  of  my 
inclination  is  to  do  all  I  can  in  the  service  of 
my  Heavenly  Father,  who  has  done  so  much 
for  me;  thus  to  endeavour  to  make  some 
restitution  for  past  errors  and  omissions 
which  I  was  guilty  of.  Should  this  frail 
7* 


7S 

mortal  desire  at  any  time  to  boast,  be  puffed 
lip,  or  wish  the  least  merit,  oh !  that  it  may 
be  mortified  and  abased  in  the  earth,  brought 
o  nothing,  as  it  really  is  in  the  sight  of  an 
bmniscient,  perfect  Deity,  without  whose  aid 
it  cannot  even  think  a  good  thought,  much 
less  do  a  good  act.  Ah  !  my  dear  friends, 
humble  the  creature,  I  entreat  you,  but  ex- 
alt and  highly  extol  the  Creator  for  all, 
whose  right  it  is  to  rule  and  have  the  pre- 
eminence. 

^  We  should  not  fail  to  celebrate  the  good- 
laess  of  the  Almighty,  in  the  ears  of  them 
afar  off,  that  so  they  might  be  induced  to 
draw  near  unto  him  and  be  saved.  ^*  Look 
^^  unto  me,  and  be  ye  saved,  all  the  ends  of 
'^  the  earth.''  "  Draw  nigh  to  God,  and  he 
*^  will  draw  nigh  to  you,''  saith  the  Apostle. 
"'•'  Come  now,  and  let  us  reason  together, 
''  saith  the  Lord :  though  your  sins  be  as 
^^  scarlet,  they  shall  be  as  white  as  snow, 
'^  though  they  be  red  like  crimson,  they 
"  shall  be  as  wool."  Surely  here  is  every 
encouragement  for  backsliders  to  return  unto 
the  Lord,  who  will  heal  their  backslidings 
and  forgive  their  iniquities,  if  the  heart  be 
truly  repentant. — There  is  more  joy  in  hea- 
ven over  one  sinner  that  repenteth  tlian  over 
ninety  and  nine  just  persons  that  need  not 
Fepeii  lance. 

^  In  that  love  which  iaflueiices  me  to  wish 


79 

every  creature  the  same  portion  of  happiness 
with  myself,  I  earnestly  desire  those  who 
are  aloof  may  speedily  come  near,  and  s»b- 
mit  to  the  refining,  purifying  operations  of 
the  Word  of  Truth  revealed  in  the  secret  of 
the  soul.  No  longer  resist  or  stifle  the  still 
small  voice,  which  invites  in  the  most  ten- 
der, gentle  language, — yea,  like  a  fond  pa- 
rent, wishing  all  his  children  to  he  happy. 
The  way  Is  plain,  and  so  simple,  that  none 
need  go  astray :  "  the  wayfaring  men,  though 
^^  fools,  shall  not  err  therein.''  ''  Seek  ye 
"  the  Lord  while  he  may  be  found,  call  ye 
*^upon  him  while  he  is  near.  Let  the  wick- 
'^ed  forsake  his  way,  and  the  unrighteous 
^'  man  his  thoughts,  and  let  him  return  unto 
^^the  Lord,  and  he  will  have  mercy  upon 
^'  him,  and  to  our  God,  for  he  will  abun- 
'^dantly  pardon."  Be  no  longer  governed 
by  shame,  but  publicly  avow  yourselves  on 
your  Redeemer's  side,  proving  by  the  sim- 
plicity of  dress  and  address,  that  you  are  his 
followers,  for  whose  cause  our  worthy  pre- 
decessors counted  it  a  glorious  thing  to  suf- 
fer: they  were  not  ashamed  of  a  plain  garb, 
or  of  being  reckoned  singular  by  the  world, 
clearly  evinciug  by  their  upright  life  and 
conversation  their  leader  and  guide  to  be  the 
Spirit  of  I'rulh,  which  leads  into  all  truth, 
and  only  can  preserve  in  rectitude  of  con- 
duct.   "  Come  out  from  among  them  and  be 


80 


"ye  separate,  and  touch  not  the  unclean 
'^  thing;  and  I  will  receive  you,  and  will  be 
^'  a  fjither  unto  you,  and  ye  shall  he  my  sons 
*^  and  daughters,  saith  the  Lord  Almighty/ 


6  mo.  3. — "  The  fear  of  the  Lord  is  the 
^^  beginning  of  wisdom/'  and  ^^  to  depart 
^^  from  evil  is  understanding:'' — ^*  he  hath 
^'  showed  thee,  O  man,  what  is  good,  and 
*'  what  doth  the  Lord  require  of  thee,  but  to 
^^  do  justly,  and  to  love  mercy,  and  to  walk 
^'  humbly  with  thy  God  ?"  I  long  for  all  to 
come  and  see  how  good  the  Lord  is,  to  taste 
the  sweets  of  his  love  for  themselves.  Every 
sacrifice  requisite  for  this  attainment  should 
be  made,  however  great,  though  comparable 
to  faithful  Abraham  offering  his  son  Isaac. 
'*  Faith  is  the  substance  of  things  hoped  for, 
''  the  evidence  of  things  not  seen  :"  it  re- 
moves mountainous  obstacles  ; — *'  If  ye  have 
^'  faith  as  a  grain  of  mustard  seed,  ye  shall 
*^say  unto  this  mountain.  Remove  hence  to 
^^  yonder  place,  and  it  shall  remove,"  said 
the  dear  Redeemer  to  his  disciples.  Un- 
shaken faith  is  a  truly  desirable  possession 
— may  this  gift  spread  and  abound  in  every 
heart,  so  that  when  tried,  they  may  prove 
the  foundation  immoveable  as  a  rock.  A 
true  believer  has  many  blessings  :  "  JBlessed 


81 

^^  are  tliey  that  have  not  seen  and  yet  have 
'^  believed/^  said  my  precious  Saviour  to 
Thomas,  who  did  not  believe  him  to  be  the 
Lord  till  he  called  him  to  thrust  his  hand 
into  his  side,  and  put  his  fingers  in  the  print 
of  the  nails — '^  be  not  faithless  but  believ- 
^^ing:"  then  he  said,  ^^  My  Lord  and  my 
^'  God  !"  Oh  !  that  not  one  may  be  in  the 
alarming  state  of  an  unbeliever.' 


On  seeing  a  few  friends  who  visited  her, 
$he  wrote  thus  : — 

'  The  love  and  tender  solicitude  of  my 
mind  for  my  dear  friends  can  only  be  known 
by  Him  from  whom  the  heart  is  not  conceal- 
ed. Ah  !  serve  the  Lord  faithfully  and  with 
diligence,  I  entreat  you,  for  the  peace  flow- 
ing in  an  obedient  mind  is  indescribable.  I 
would  allure  every  creature  to  make  a  free 
surrender  of  all  demanded;  keep  nothing 
back;  the  Lord  loveth  an  early  sacrifice. 
Let  not  this  visit  pass  away  as  the  early 
dew  or  a  morning  cloud,  but  be  it  sealed  on 
each  mind. 

'  I  hope  gratitude  fills  my  heart,  in  being 
enabled  to  see  my  dear  friends  ;  and  though 
articulation  has  ceased,  I  am  not  depressed 
on  seeing  you.  Oh  !  that  all  may  redound 
to  the  praise  of  Him  that  has  done  all.' 


(5  mo.  5. — ^  We  have  many  instances  re- 
corded in  sacred  writ  of  the  blessinsrs  at- 
tending  a  firm  belief  and  true  faith  in  the 
word  of  the  Holy  One  through  the  mouths 
of  his  messengers;  by  this  the  barrel  of  meal 
wasted  not,  neither  did  the  cruse  of  oil  fail, 
till  the  day  that  the  Lord  sent  rain  on  the 
earth,  as  foretold  by  Elijah,  the  man  of  God, 
whose  word  being  despised  by  the  unbeliev- 
ing lord,  that  said,  '*  If  the  Lord  would 
''  make  windows  in  heaven,  might  this  thing 
^^  be." — "Behold,  thou  shalt  see  it  with 
*^  thine  eyes,  but  shalt  not  cat  thereof,"  was 
the  reply  of  the  Prophet ;  which  was  verifi- 
ed, for  he  was  trodden  to  death  in  the  gate 
of  the  city :  he  saw  the  plenty  but  did  not 
taste  it. 

'  My  feelings  have  been  deeply  wounded, 
and  sorrow  has  filled  my  heart,  on  hearing 
the  public  declarations  of  ministers  torn  to 
pieces  and  made  little  of.  I  tenderly  warn 
all  not  to  encourage  this  disposition.  Oh  ! 
let  none  practice  this  offence  in  the  sight  of 
an  omniscient,  omnipresent  Deity,  who  re- 
gards according  to  our  actions,  and  will 
punish  disobedience  one  day  or  other.  Very 
unexpectedly  has  my  mind  been  thus  im- 
pressed this  day,  which  I  venture  to  disclose 
in,  I  trust,  humble  fear,  lest  I  should  act 
contrary  to  the  will  of  my  faithful  Creator, 
who  I  desire  may  rule  and  govern  all  in  me  : 


8a 


lie  is  the  mighty  Counsellor,  the  everlasting 
Father,  and  the  Prince  of  Peace,  showing 
kindness  to  the  unthankful,  and  mercy  to 
the  cruel ;  his  judgment  is  not  harsh  or  se- 
vere, but  lenient  and  compassionate  to  trans- 
gressors. Oh  !  that  his  law  and  his  testimony 
may  no  longer  be  trampled  on.  "  The  law 
"  of  the  Lord  is  perfect,  converting  the  soul ; 
^'  the  testimony  of  the  Lord  is  sure,  making 
"  wise  the  simple  ;  the  statutes  of  the  Lord 
*' are  right,  rejoicing  the  heart;  the  com- 
"  mandment  of  the  Lord  is  pure,  enlighten- 
^'  ing  the  eyes  ;  the  fear  of  the  Lord  is  clean, 
^^  enduring  for  ever;  the  judgments  of  the 
^'  Lord  are  true  and  righteous  altogether : 
^^  more  to  be  desired  are  they  than  gold,  yea, 
^'  than  much  fine  gold,  sweeter  also  than  ho- 
^^  ney  and  the  honey-comb.'' — "  There  is  no 
'^  man  that  hath  left  house,  or  brethren,  or 
^^  sisters,  or  father,  or  mother,  or  wife,  or 
^•children,  or  lands  for  my  sake  and  the 
^^ gospel's,  but  he  shall  receive  an  hundred 
''  fold  now  in  this  time,  and  in  the  world  to 
^'  come  eternal  life,"  said  our  holy  Pattern, 
whose  reward  is  sure  to  such  as  serve  him 
faithfully ;  let  the  world  receive  them  as  it 
may,  no  condemnation  shall  rest  on  their 
heads,  but  greater  w  ill  it  be  on  their  perse- 
cutors. 

"  Bless  the  Lord,  O  my  soul,  and  all  that 
''  is  within  me  bless  his  holy  name :   bless 


84i 

'^  the  Lord,  O  my  soul,  and  forget  not  all 
"his  benefits;  who  forgiveth  all  thine  ini- 
''  quities,  who  healeth  all  thy  diseases.'' 
Truly  pleasant  is  it  to  serve  the  King  of 
kings ;  his  yoke  it  is  easy  and  his  burdea 
light.  May  you  that  have  not  yet  taken  his 
yoke  on  your  shoulders  be  induced  to  come 
and  feel  its  ease ;  no  longer  delay  entering 
into  the  strait  and  narrow  way  which  leadeth 
unto  life:  they  who  walk  in  wisdom's  ways 
shall  find  them  pleasant,  and  all  her  paths 
peace.  It  may  be  truly  said,  "  in  thy  pre- 
"  sence,"  O  Lord,  "  is  fulness  of  joy,  and  at 
^'  thy  right  hand  there  are  pleasures  for  ever- 
^'  more." — "  There  is  a  river,  the  streams 
"  whereof  shall  make  glad  the  city  of  God," 
running  through  that  glorious  city,  the  beau- 
tiful Mount  Zion,  the  new  Jerusalem,  where- 
in thou,  O  Immanuel!  presides,  the  walls 
thereof  are  salvation,  and  its  gates  are 
praise. 

'  Not  sleeping  much  leaves  me  fine  time 
for  meditation,  and  for  enjoying  a  calm,  un- 
ruffled mind.  I  hope  I  am  diligent  in  em- 
ploying all  in  gratitude  and  praise  to  the 
Author  of  all  my  unmerited  blessings.  Oh! 
what  am  I,  to  be  thus  cared  for? — each  day 
visited  with  the  extendings  of  the  Father's 
love,  w ho  condescends  to  dwell  with  one  of 
the  meanest,  most  unworthy  and  unprofit- 
able of  his  servants.  The  hours  are  swift, 
and  run  smiling  away^  though  not  many  ia 


85 

the  twenty-four  strike  unknown  to  me. — Ai:t 
thou  humble  and  grateful,  my  soul  for  all 
these  favours,  high  favours,  wholly  unde- 
served by  thee  ?  While  the  day  begins  and 
ends  in  peace,  there  is  good  reason  to  hope 
the  heart  is  accepted  by  its  Maker,  to  whom 
be  all  the  praise  and  adoration,  who  wrought 
this  great  work.' 


6  mo.  6. — ^  Oh  !  happy  moments,  happy 
moments  iiit  away,  and  let  the  happier  one 
come  on  that  shall  unite  thee,  my  soul,  to 
thy  well-beloved,  never  more  to  be  disturb- 
ed nor  separated  from  Him,  with  whom 
thou  delights  to  dwell ;  then  thy  bliss  will 
have  no  alloy. — Be  faithful  and  patient  to 
the  end,  and  a  crown  of  glory  is  prepared 
for  thee.  Are  not  thy  desires  to  allure 
others  to  the  same  state,  as  thy  dear  Re- 
deemer has,  through  his  invincible  power 
and  unmerited  goodness,  brought  thee  to? 
But  thy  chief  joys,  daily  multiplied,  lie  con- 
cealed from  human  observation. 

^^  Blessed  are  those  servants  whom  the 
^'  Lord  when  he  cometh  shall  find  watching."' 
Oh  !  may  I  be  found  ready  in  waiting  any 
hour  the  bridegroom  shall  please  to  come. 
Have  your  lamps  trimmed,  my  dear  friends, 
ere  the  midnight  cry  is  heard,  lest  the  door 
8 


86 


be  sliiit^  and  the  sentence  pass — "  I  know 
^^  you  not.'^  Woeful  are  these  words,  I  know 
you  not.  Individually  seek  to  deserve  the 
blessed  sentence  of  ^'  Well  done,  good  and 
'( faithful  servant,  enter  thou  into  the  joy  of 
^^  thy  Lord/'  Resolve  with  Joshua  formerly, 
let  others  do  as  they  may,  ^^  as  for  me  and 
^^  my  house  we  will  serve  the  Lord/'  If  all 
hearts  were  thus  religiously  concerned,  the 
many  deviations  and  inconsistencies  so  ob- 
vious amongst  us  would  be  removed,  and  a 
true  desire  to  attend  to  the  limitations  of 
Truth  in  thought,  word,  and  deed,  would  be 
entertained ;  thus  we  should  be  as  lights  in  the 
world,  a  city  set  on  a  hill  that  cannot  be  hid, 
keeping  a  single  eye  to  our  holy  Leader, — 
that  others  seeing  our  good  works  might  be 
induced  to  walk  in  the  same  path,  and  glorify 
our  Father  which  is  in  heaven/ 


6  mo.  7- — ^  I  think  it  was  a  distinguished 
statesman  formerly  who  near  the  close  of  his 
life  expressed  himself  thus, — "While  we 
^'  laugh,  all  things  are  serious  round  about 
**  us ;  God  is  serious  who  preserveth  us  and 
^^  hath  patience  towards  us ;  Christ  is  serious 
^^  who  shed  his  blood  for  us;  the  Holy  Ghost 
^^  is  serious  when  he  striveth  with  us ;  the 
"  whole  creation  is  serious  in  serving  God  and 


87 

•'  us;  they  are  serious  in  heaven  and  in  hell ; 
^^  how  then  can  we  he  gay  ?"^  I  disclose  in 
simplicity  my  thoughts  as  they  occur  :  Levity 
of  conduct,  or  much  light,  frivolous  conver- 
sation, to  me  indicates  a  vacuum  in  the 
mind;  talking  much  tendeth  not  to  profit,  for 
they  that  say  much  say  some  in  vain.  We 
read,  "  that  every  idle  word  that  men  shall^ 
^^  speak,  they  shall  give  an  account  thereof 
^'in  the  day  of  judgment;"  this  thought 
should  excite  in  each  a  continual  watchful 
care  of  our  words  and  actions,  also  a  frequent 
severe  scrutiny  of  ourselves,  to  preserve  a 
clear,  impartial  account  against  the  last  day. 
^^Ask,  and  it  shall  be  given  you;  seek, 
^'  and  ye  shall  find ;  knock,  and  it  shall  be 
"  opened  unto  you ;  for  every  one  that 
"  asketh  receiveth,  and  he  that  seeketh  find- 
''  eth,  and  to  him  that  knocketh  it  shall  be 
"  opened.'^  Grod  giveth  to  all  liberally  and 
upbraideth  not.  He  who  clothes  the  lilies, 
feeds  the  sparrows,  and  commanded  the  ra- 
vens to  feed  the  prophet  Elijah,  is  not  to  be 
distrusted  in  anything.  "  If  a  son  shall  ask 
"  bread  of  any  of  you  that  is  a  father,  will 
^'  he  give  him  a  stone,  or  if  he  ask  a  fish 
'^  will  he  for  a  fish  give  him  a  serpent,  or  if 
*^  he  shall  ask  an  egg  will  he  offer  him  a 
"  scorpion  ? — If  ye  then,  being  evil,  know 
"  how  to  give  good  gifts  unto  your  children, 
"  how  much  more  shall  your  Heavenly  Fa- 


88 

••  tlier  give  the  Holy  Spirit  to  them  that  ask 
^*  him?^' — Oh!  this  is  my  only  preserver, 
supporter,  comforter,  and  provider;  what 
should  I  he  if  deprived  of  it?  Pilgrim,  poor 
and  helpless,  without  any  good  thing  what- 
ever. If  we  expect  a  continuance  of  this  his 
first,  great  Messing,  we  must  petition  for  it 
daily,  in  sincere,  humhle  confidence,  pa- 
tiently waiting  the  will  and  time  of  the  wise, 
good  Giver  :  this  inestimahle  gift  is  worth  a 
quiet,  long  v/aiting  for;  let  none  tire  though 
tedious  the  time  may  seem  ;  the  more  patient, 
the  greater  will  be  the  gain  ultimately ;  this 
I  testify  from  certain  experience,  and  my 
heart  delights  in  celebrating  and  extolling 
the  name  of  the  everlasting  Jehovah,  who 
hath  said  of  old,  ^^  The  mountains  shall  de- 
*^  part  and  the  hills  be  removed,  but  my  kind- 
*^  ness  shall  not  depart  from  thee,  neither 
"  shall  the  covenant  of  my  peace  be  re- 
*•  moved,  saith  the  Lord  that  hath  mercy 
*'•  on  thee/' — "Behold  I  have  created  the 
»^  smith  that  blovveth  the  coals  in  the  fire, 
*'and  that  bringeth  forth  an  instrument  for 
"  his  work  ;  and  I  have  created  the  waster 
"^  to  destroy :  no  weapon  that  is  formed 
*•  against  thee  shall  prosper,  and  every 
''  tongue  that  shall  rise  against  thee  in  judg- 
^^  ment  thou  shalt  condemn;  this  is  the  heri- 
•*^  tage  of  the  servants  of  the  Lord,  and  their 
''  righteousness  is  of  me^  saith  the  Lord^'^ 


89 


6  mo.  22.—^  Yery  weak  ia  body,  bat  the 
soul  renewedly  strengthened  and  made  hap- 
py :  Praise,  praise,  glory  and  gratitude  ever 
be  its  return;  which  every  moment  calls  for/ 


7  mo.  3:—^  What  must  be  the  joys  of  hea- 
ven when  I  am  so  happy  on  earth.  I  hope 
soon  to  be  there.  Oh!  happy  moment,  happy 
will  it  be  !  Praise,  high  praise  and  glory  be 
thine  for  evermore,  my  beloved  Immanuel, 
who  art  glorious  in  holiness,  fearful  in  praises. 
Oh  !  mayest  thou  become  the  praise  and  the 
glory  of  the  whole  earth,  my  adored  Re- 
deemer. Of  all  that  come  unto  thee  in  faith 
and  true  belief,  seeking  salvation,  none  wilt 
thou  refuse ;  a  good,  gracious  and  merciful 
Saviour,  for  ever  good  thou  art :  may  thy 
blessed  work  prosper  in  every  heart,  and 
thy  holy  will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  ia 
heaven.  Thy  service  is  truly  pleasant,  de- 
lightful it  is  to  obey  thy  sweet  voice,  no 
comfort  equal  to  it :  my  Heavenly  Father 
thou  hast  been  and  continues  a  true  com- 
forter to  me;  thy  pure  unerring  will  and 
good  time,  demand  in  justice  a  long,  patient, 
quiet  waiting :  better  art  thou  than  thou- 
sands of  worlds  :  I  have  none  in  heaven  but 
thee,  nor  in  the  earth  that  I  desire  in  com- 
parison of  thee.  Thou,  my  adored,  will  keep 
8* 


90 

me  patient  to  thy  own  good  hour.     Blessed 
be  thy  holy  name  now  and  forever,  no  cross, 
suffering,  or  affliction  whatever  dispensed, 
too  great,  nothing  too  near  or  too  dear  to  re- 
sign for  the  sake  of  that  poAverful,  good 
hand,  which  has  subjected  my  impure  will. 
^  I  would  call  the  attention  of  my  friends 
of  every  age  to  a  serious  reading  and  fre- 
quent recurrence  to  the  truths  contained  in 
the  Epistle  of  the  London  Yearly  Meeting, 
[1821]  which  I  am  favoured  to  peruse,  over 
and  over,  with  thankful  satisfaction;  believ- 
ing that  the  Lord  has  yet  a  scattered  rem- 
nant preserved,  zealous  of  good  works,  en- 
deavouring to  discharge  their  allotted  duties 
in  faithfulness,  supporting  his  precious  law 
and  testimony,  not  ashamed  of  the  religion 
of  Jesus  Christ.     1  humbly  trust  that  the 
faithful    number    may   increase.      Feeling 
warmly  interested  in  the  affairs  of  the  Church, 
strong  desires  attend  me  that  the  great  Lord 
of  the  harvest  may  please  to  send  forth  la- 
bourers into  his  plentiful  harvest,  that  all 
breaches  and  waste  places  may  be  repaired 
and  filled  up,  to  the  glory  and  praise  of  our 
God,  to  whom  alone  any  honour  is  due.  Let 
not  one  heart  rob  him  of  his  due,  by  ascrib- 
ing the  least  merit  to  the  creature,  that  should 
ever  be  abased  as  in  dust  and  ashes.     Oh  ! 
that  I  could  enlist  numbers  into  ImmanueFs 
service,  under  whose  banner  suffering  is  joy- 


91 

ous ;  my  soul  craves  a  flocking  to  the  house 
of  the  Lord,  as  of  doves  to  their  windows; 
that  they  may  come  from  the  east  and  from 
the  west,  from  the  north  and  from  the  south, 
to  join  themselves  to  the  only  God  of  their 
salvation. 

'  Parents,  every  where,  seek  to  walk  in 
the  light,  keeping  a  single  eye  to  the  Lord, 
desiring  his  gracious  aid,  that  you  may  act 
as  faithful  good  stewards  over  the  part  of  his 
heritage  entrusted  to  your  care;  thus  each 
finally  receive  the  blessed  sentence  of  ''  w  ell 
•^  done  thou  good  and  faithful  servant,  en- 
*'ter  thou  into  the  joy  of  thy  Lord.''  May 
the  faithful  in  all  classes,  of  every  religious 
persuasion  through  the  globe,  be  preserved, 
and  the  backsliders  return  and  repent  of 
their  outsteppings,  fully  aware  of  the  peril- 
ous state  into  which  Satan  plunges  the  un- 
watchful  mind.  Oh !  return,  return,  in  sin- 
cerity, all  transgressors,  high  and  low,  rich 
and  poor,  I  entreat  you;  serve  your  God, 
and  he  will  forgive  you,  who  hath  said, 
^^joy  shall  be  in  heaven  over  one  sinner  that 
•*  repenteth,  more  than  over  ninety  and  nine 
"just  persons  that  need  no  repentance.'^ 
Pray  not,  as  did  the  self-righteous  Pharisee, 
but  in  contrition  and  humility,  like  the  Pub- 
lican, self-condemned,  who  smote  his  breast 
and  said,  "  God  be  merciful  to  me  a  sinner :" 
by  which  he  was  more  justified  than  the 


93 

other ;  as  said  our  blessed  Lord,  ^^  wlioso- 
'^ever  exalteth  himself  shall  be  abased,  and 
^^  he  that  humbleth  himself  shall  be  exalt- 
^^ed.'^ 

^  Oh  !  the  peace  and  joy  which  flow  from 
doing  any  thing  acceptable  in  the  Divine 
sight.  I  dare  not  even  write  a  line  in  my 
own  will  or  time. — Happy  state  !  true  sub- 
jection of  human  nature  !  entire  resignation 
to  the  only  refiner  of  hearts,  who  through 
various  trying  baptisms,  necessary  to  efi'ect 
the  important,  awful  work  of  our  redemp- 
tion, thus  bends  the  corrupt  will.  This 
great  work  should  not  be  delayed  or  trifled 
with  by  us,  poor  finite  mortals.  Oh  !  it  is 
deeply  interesting,  and  blessed  to  such  as 
patiently  abide  its  chastening  influence. 
When  1  look  to  futurity,  all  is  joy,  pure, 
unmixed  joy.  Sv»^eet  death,  thou  art  not  to 
alarm  me,  end  of  my  sufferings^  crowning 
all  hopes ! 

'  Oh!  that  I  could  warn  or  induce  all  my 
associates  to  separate  from  every  thing  con- 
trary to  a  happy  immortality — no  longer  to 
serve  this  world,  but  serve  their  only  Sa- 
viour— in  time  of  health  yield  unreservedly 
your  wills  to  the  convictions  and  unerring 
guidance  of  the  Spirit  of  Truth,  ever  lead- 
ing in  the  simple  strait  path  to  eternal  life.' 


93 

Soon  after  the  foregoing  was  written, 
Margaret  Jackson  ceased  to  use  her  pen. 
She  continued  for  more  than  six  months  with- 
out much  apparent  change,  and  in  the  full 
possession  of  her  mental  faculties,  tliough 
unable  to  utter  a  word;  her  bodily  strength 
w^as  worn  down  almost  to  the  last  extremity, 
yet  under  these  trying  circumstances  she  be- 
trayed not  the  least  impatience;  the  tran- 
quillity of  her  demeanour  and  sweetness  of 
her  countenance  were  remarkable,  and  evi- 
denced that  all  within  was  peace. 

A  brief  record  of  the  circumstances  im- 
mediately preceding  her  release  from  the 
bonds  of  mortality,  was  preserved  by  those 
who  attended  on  her  : — 

18S2,  1  mo.  30.— This  day  she  was  at- 
tacked  with  a  violent  pain,  which  lasted  se- 
veral hours :  the  night  was  a  memorable 
one,  wherein  the  long-suspended  faculty  of 
speech  was  restored  to  her,  to  the  astonish- 
ment of  the  attendant  who  was  sitting  up 
with  her.  About  eleven  o'clock  she  raised 
her  voice  in  prayer,  after  being  eight  months 
deprived  of  the  power  of  articulation, — on 
being  asked  if  she  wished  her  sister,  who 
was  in  a  delicate  state  of  health,  to  be  called 
up,  she  said  she  would  not  have  her  dis- 
turbed, for  she  was  convinced  she  could 
speak  to  her  in  the  niornicg. 


94 

31st. — On  her  sister  going  into  the  room, 
she  said  to  her,  '*  My  astonishment  was 
^^  great  to  find  my  tongue  so  suddenly  loos- 
"  ened,  as  the  minute  before  I  spoke  I  do 
^^  not  think  I  could  have  articulated  a  word ;" 
— and  compared  herself  to  Zacharias  in  the 
temple  at  the  time  that  John  the  Baptist 
was  presented  before  him.  She  also  said, 
that  during  the  eight  months  she  was  silent, 
she  enjoyed  unutterable  happiness.  Most 
of  her  conversation  this  day  consisted  of  in- 
quiries after  her  friends,  and  desiring  that 
her  love  might  be  given  to  all,  both  in  and 
out  of  the  society.  She  w^as  much  tried  dur- 
ing the  day  with  restlessness,  and  said,  she 
hoped  soon  to  be  where  she  should  hear  and 
join  in  the  song  of  Moses  and  of  the  Lamb, 
where  the  morning  stars  sing  together,  and 
the  sons  of  God  shout  for  joy.  She  dwelt 
much  on  the  inconsistencies  in  dress  and 
behaviour  that  prevail  in  the  society,  and 
said,  she  thought  she  could  scarcely  then 
bear  to  see  a  fashionably  dressed  person. 

2  mo.  1. — In  the  afternoon  she  expressed 
a  wish  that  her  sister  should  take  her  sup- 
per, for  the  last  time,  in  her  room :  she  con- 
versed on  various  subjects  till  a  late  hour. 

5th. — This  day  she  was  again  attacked 
with  the  same  extreme  pain,  which,  she  re- 


95 

marked,  was  no  common  pain.  She  pray- 
ed in  the  most  animated  and  feeling  manner, 
that  if  consistent  with  the  Divine  will,  she 
might  quickly  be  released  from  all  her  suf- 
ferings ;  but  she  had  no  doubt  all  would  yet 
be  well. 

15th. — From  the  foregoing  to  this  date, 
she  continued  to  suffer  much  pain  at  times  : 
— this  day  she  is  lying  quite  still,  and  seems 
to  take  but  little  notice  of  the  objects  about 
her : — her  breathing  is  much  affected. 

16th. — Through  most  part  of  last  night 
her  breathing  continued  to  grow  weaker, 
until  about  ten  minutes  before  eight  o'clock 
this  morning,  when  it  ceased — and  we  reve- 
rently believe,  her  purified,  happy  spirit, 
took  its  flight  to  the  realms  of  everlasting 
rest  and  peace. 


THE  END. 


SKERRETT — EOCrST    STREET, 
I'HJLADELPaiA. 


THE  FOLLOWING  PUBLICATION^ 
JiRE  FOR  SJILE 

BY  BENJAMIN  &  THOMAS  KITE, 

No.  20,  NORTH  THIRD  STREET. 

MEMOIRS  and  SELECT  REMAINS  of  an 
ONLY  SON,  who  died  November  27,  1821,  in 
his  19th  year,  while  a  student  in  the  University  of 
Glasgow.  By  Thomas  Durant,  Poole,  Dorset, 
England. 

MEMOIRS  of  the  late  MARY  COOPER,  of 
London,  who  departed  this  life  June  22,  1812,  in 
the  26th  year  of  her  age.  By  Adam  Clarke. 
L.  L.  D. 

PRIVATE  CORRESPONDENCE  of  WIL- 
LIAM COWPER,  Esq.  with  several  of  his  most 
intimate  Friends.  Published  by  his  kinsman  John 
Johnson,  L.  L.  D. 

MEMOIRS  of  the  LIFE  and  MINISTRY  of 
the  late  THOMAS  SPENCER,  of  Liverpool.  By 
Thomas  Raffles. 

MEMOIRS  and  LETTERS  of  RICHARD  and 
ELIZABETH  SHACKLETON,  late  of  Balli- 
tore,  Ireland ;  compiled  by  their  Daughter  Mary 
Leadbeater. 

LETTERS  of  the  late  JOHN  THORP,  of 
Manchester,  a  Minister  of  the  Gospel  in  the  So- 
ciety of  Friends.  To  which  is  prefixed,  a  Me- 
moir of  the  Life  of  the  Writer. 

MEMOIRS  of  the  LIFE  and  RELIGIOUS 
EXPERIENCE  of  WILLIAM  LEWIS,  late  of 
Bristol. 

EXTRACTS  from  the  PAPERS  of  EDWIN 
PRICE,  late  of  Neath  Abbey,  Glamorganshire, 
with  some  account  of  his  last  illness  and  Death. 

The  SPIRITUAL  GUIDE,  an  abstract  from  a 
larger  work,  by  Michael  de  Molinos. 


/ 


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